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BIDDLE'S 



MATERIA MEDICA 



MATERIA MEDICA 



PHYSICIANS AND STUDENTS. 



JOHN B. BIDDLE, M.D., 

LATK PKOFESSOB OF MATERIA MEDICA AND GENERAL THERAPEUTICS IN THE JEFFERSON 
MEDICAL COLLEGE, PHILADELPHIA. 



NINTH EDITION, ■ 

REVISED, REWRITTEN AND ENLARGED, 

IN" ACCORDANCE WITH THE SIXTH REVISION OF 

Z\)t <Lt. &. IMjarmaropivia, 

BY 

CLEMENT BIDDLE, M.D., U.S.N. 



"" £ ! WITH NUMEROUS ILLUSTRATIONS 

\Jr V 




PHILADELPHIA: 
P. BLAKISTON, SON & CO., 

No. 1012 Walnut Street. 
188 3. 



Ifa 



Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1883, 

BY P. BLAKISTON, SON & CO., 

In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. 



PREFACE 



TO THE NINTH EDITION. 



The exhaustion of the reprint of the eighth edition 
of Biddle's Materia Meclica has rendered necessary the 
preparation of a new edition, and this I have under- 
taken, not without grave doubts as to my fitness for 
the task. 

In preparing this, a number of changes have been 
made, the majority of the articles rewritten, a chapter 
on the metric system inserted, a considerable portion 
of the botanical and pharmaceutical details altered, 
curtailed or omitted, and several new remedies added 
to the contents. The additions are — Duboisia, Homo- 
tropine, Hamamelis, Extract of Malt, Pulsatilla, Phy- 
tolacca, Staphisagria, Ustilago, Viburnum, Grindelia, 
Sumbul, Apomorphia hydrochlorate, Viola tricolor, 
Magnesia ponderosa, Elaterin, Menispermum, Calendula, 
Triticum, Quillaia, Oil of Santal, Auric and Sodium 
Chloride, the Salicylates ; Boric Acid ; Thymol, Sapo 
viridis, Chrysarobin, Petrolatum, Oleic Acid, etc., etc. 
A number of unimportant remedies, as the Gum rivale, 
and the chapter on Pneumatic Aspiration, have been 
left out of this edition. 



VI PREFACE. 

The classification of medicines has been rearranged, 
Calabar Bean, Conium, Cocculus Indicus and Woorara 
being placed with Spinants, and the Bromides with 
Narcotics. In the previous editions the former were 
treated of under Narcotics, and the latter under Alter- 
atives. To topical agents an order has been added, 
viz., Antiseptics, and with it Potassium Permanganate, 
Aqua Chlori, Calx Chlorata, Liquor Sodse Chlorate, 
Bromine, Iodine, Carbolic Acid, Creasote, Salicylic 
Acid, the Salicylates, Boracic Acid, Borax, Benzoic 
Acid, Sodium and Ammonium Benzoates and Thymol 
have been placed. 

The most important alteration in this edition con- 
sists in changing the consideration of the action of 
medicines from the empirical to the physiological plan. 
In studying the action of a drug on the economy, 
the following method has been adopted, viz., local 
action, the nervous system (brain, spinal cord and 
nerves) , circulation, respiration, temperature, secretions 
(salivary, intestinal and urinary), and mode of elimi- 
nation. 

The new chemistry has been followed, and all form- 
ulae, etc., not agreeing with it have been altered. It 
has been deemed more correct, in giving the name of 
a salt, to omit the word "of;" for instance, Carbonate 
of Sodium reads Sodium Carbonate, and other salts 
the same way. Similar alterations have been made in 
the organic salts, Sulphate of Quinia reading Quinia 
Sulphate, etc. 

All the important changes which have been made in 
the sixth decennial revision of the U. S. Pharmacopoeia 
have been incorporated. At the end of the work the 
editor has added, in an appendix, some notes on the 



PREFACE. Vll 

Chinese Materia Medica as compared with that of the 
U. S. P. 

The editor takes pleasure in renewing the dedication, 
as in former editions, to the gentlemen in attendance 
upon the various medical schools in North America. 

In concluding I must state that much of whatever 
credit may be due for the revision of this work be- 
longs to Dr. Henry Morris, inasmuch as the editor, over 
whose name the revision appears, was ordered to duty 
on the Asiatic station before a third of the work had 
been completed. The editor was, therefore, only able 
to sketch the plan of revision for the balance, which he 
had proposed adopting, and to turn over the carrying 
out of this plan to Dr. Morris. 

Clement Biddle. 

Philadelphia, May 1, 1883. 



PREFACE 

TO THE EIGHTH EDITION. 



The exhaustion of the seventh edition of the Materia 
Medica, within little more than a year since it was 
issued, having rendered necessary the publication of a 
new edition, it has been carefully revised, much of it 
has been recast and even rewritten, and many new arti- 
cles have been added. The author trusts that it will 
be found to have kept pace with the progress of phar- 
macological science, and to contain all important recent 
contributions to the various departments of pharma- 
cology. 

The illustrations of the book comprise, as in previous 
editions, representations of most of the important indi- 
genous and naturalized plants, as well as diagrams of 
instruments employed in the atomization of liquids, in 
the new operation of pneumatic aspiration, in the trans- 
fusion of blood, and in the recently-introduced pneu- 
matic method in the treatment of thoracic diseases. 

The author has aimed in this, as in previous editions, 
to present a succinct account of the articles of the 
Materia Medica in general use in the United States, 
and discussed in the courses of lectures delivered upon 
the subject, to which he trusts the work will be found, 
as heretofore, to furnish a suitable text-book. He 
takes pleasure in renewing his dedication of it to the 
gentlemen in attendance upon the various medical 
schools in North America. 



CONTENTS 



• PAGE 

Remedies — Definition of, 17 

Division of, .17 

PART I. 

MECHANICAL REMEDIES. 

General Bloodletting, 17 

Leeches and Cups, 18 

Scarifications, . .19 

Setons and Issues, 19 

Bandages, Frictions, Acupuncture, . 19 

Baunscheidtismus, 20 

Pneumatic Aspiration, 20 

PART II. 

IMPONDERABLE REMEDIES. 

Light, 23 

Heat, 23 

Cold, 24 

Electricity, . 25 

PART III. 

PHARMACOLOGICAL REMEDIES, OR MEDICINES. 

Medicines — Definition of, 28 

Modus Operandi of, 29 

Circumstances which modify the Effects of, 30 

Forms in which they are used, . . . . .31 

Solids, ' ... .31 

Liquids, 33 

Semi-solids, • 38 

Gases and Vapours, ....... 40 

Weights and Measures, 40 

Effects of Age, Sex, Temperament, Idiosyncrasy, Habit, 

Disease, etc., upon, .44 

Parts to which Medicines are applied, . . . .45 
To the Skin, 45 



CONTENTS. 



The Hypodermic method 

To Mucous Membranes, 

Atomization, 

To Serous Membranes, . 

To Ulcers, Wounds, Abscesses, etc 

Transfusion of Blood, . 
Classification of Medicines, 
Class I. — Neurotics, . . 
Order I. # Narcotics, 

Opium, .... 

Chloral, .... 

Croton-chloral hydrate, . 

Potassii Bromidum (Potassium Bromide 

Ammonii Bromidum (Ammonium Bromide) 

Sodii Bromidum (Sodium Bromide), 

Lithii Bromidum (Lithium Bromide), 

Calcii Bromidum (Calcium Bromide), 

Lactucarium, . 

Belladonna, 

Stramonium, . 

Hyoscyamus, . 

Tabacum (Tobacco), 

Duboisia, 

Lobelia, . 

Aconitum (Aconite), 

Cannabis Americana, 

Cannabis Indica, 

Humulus (Hops), 

Dulcamara (Bittersweet), 

Acidum Hydrocyanicum Dilutum (Diluted Hydrocyani 

Acid), . . 
Potassii Cyanidum (Potassium Cyanide), 
Oleum Amygdalae Amarse (Oil of Bitter Almond), 
Camphora (Camphor), 
Order II. Ethereal Anaesthetics, 
^Ether (Ether), 
Chloroformum (Chloroform), 
Khigolene, 

Methylene Bichloride, 
Methylic Ether, 
Compounds of Amyl, 
Tetrachloride of Carbon, 
Nitrous Oxide, 
Order III. Antispasmodics, 

Asafcetida (Asafetida), ; 



CONTENTS. XI 

PAGE 

Galbanum, Ill 

Ammoniacum (Ammoniac), .112 

Valeriana (Valerian), .112 

Acidum Valerianicum (Valerianic Acid), . . .113 
Amrnonii Valerianas (Ammonium Valerianate), . .113 

Cypripedium, . . . 114 

Scutellaria (Skullcap), 114 

Dracontium (Skunk Cabbage), 114 

Thea (Tea), 115 

Caffea (Coffee), . . .. . . . . .115 

Theobroma (Chocolate), 116 

Erythroxylon Coca (Coca), 116 

Paullinia (Guarana), . . . . . . .116 

Mate, 116 

Moschus (Musk), 117 

Oleum Succini Rectificatum (Rectified Oil of Amber), . 118 

Oleum JEthereum (Ethereal Oil), 118 

Spiritus iEtheris Compositus (Compound Spirit of Ether), 119 
Order IV. Tonics, 119 

Vegetable Tonics, 120 

Simple Bitters, . 121 

Quassia, .......... 121 

Simaruba, ......... 121 

Coptis (Goldthread), 122 

Gentiana (Gentian), ....... 123 

Frasera (American Columbo), . 124 

Sabbatia, 124 

Calumba (Columbo), 125 

Chirata, ; .126 

Aromatic Bitters, 126 

Serpentaria, 126 

Anthemis (Chamomile), ....... 128 

Cotula (Mayweed), 129 

Matricaria (German Chamomile), 129 

Eupatorium (Thoroughwort), 129 

Absinthium (Wormwood), 130 

Magnolia, 131 

Liriodendron (Tulip-tree Bark), . . . . 131 

Angustura, 131 

Cascarilla, ... . . . . . . . 132 

Canella, 133 

Achillea (Yarrow), 133 

Astringent Bitters, 133 

Cinchona, 133 

Quinise Sulphas (Quinia Sulphate), .... 141 



Xll 



CONTENTS. 



Quinia? Bisulphas (Quinine Bisulphate), 

Quiniae Valerianas (Quinine Valerianate), 

Quiniae Hydrobromas (Quinine Hydrobromate), 

Quiniae Hydrochloras (Quinine Hydrochlorate), 

Chinoidinum (Chinoidin), 

Cincboniae Sulphas (Cinchonia Sulphate), 

Quiuidi88 Sulphas (Quinidine Sulphate), 

Cinchonidiae Sulphas (Cinchonidine Sulphate), 

Eucalyptus, .... 

Cornus (Dogwood), 

Salix (Willow), 

Prunus Yirginiana (Wild Cherry), 

Nectandra, .... 
Digestive Ferments, .... 

Pepsinum (Pepsin), 

Pancreatinum (Pancreatin), 
Mineral Tonics, ..... 

Ferri Praeparata (Preparations of Iron), 

Cupri Praeparata (Preparations of Copper), 

Zinci Prasparata (Preparations of Zinc), 

Argenti Praeparata (Preparations of Silver), 

Bismuthi Subnitras (Bismuth Subnitrate), 

Bismuthi Subcarbonas (Bismuth Subcarbonate), 

Bismuth and Ammonium Citrate, 

Bismuth Valerianate, 

Cerii Oxalas (Cerium Oxalate), 

Acida Mineralia (Mineral Acids), 
Order V. Astringents, .... 
Vegetable Astringents, 

Acidum Tannicum (Tannic Acid), 

Acidum Gallicum (Gallic Acid), 

Galla (Nutgall), 

Catechu, ..... 

Kino, 

Krameria (Rhatany), 

Haematoxylon (Logwood), 

Quercus Alba (White Oak), 

Quercus Tinctoria (Black Oak), 

Geranium, .... 

Hamamelis (Witch-hazel), 

Granati Fructus Cortex (Pomegranate Rind), 

Rosa Gallica (Red Rose), 

Rose Centifolia (Pale Rose), . 

Diospyros (Persimmon), . 

Rubus (Blackberry), 



CONTENTS. 



Xlll 



Castanea (Chestnut Leaves), . 
Mineral Astringents, 

Plumbi Prasparata (Preparations of Lead 

Alumen (Alum), ..... 

Aluminii Sulphas (Aluminium Sulphate) 

Order VI. Stimulants, 

Diffusible Stimulants, ..... 

Alcohol, 

Yinum (Wine), ..... 

Spiritus Vini Gallici (Brandy), 

Spiritus Frumenti (Whisky), . 

Spiritus Juniperi (Gin), .... 

Spiritus Myrciae (Spirit of Myrcia), 

Malt Liquors (Extract of Malt), 

Ammonias Prseparata (Preparations of Ammo 

Phosphorus, 

Phosphide of Zinc, . 
Aromatics, .... 

Capsicum, 

Piper (Black Pepper), 

Cinnamomum (Cinnamon) 

Myristica (Nutmeg), 

Macis (Mace), 

Caryophyllus (Cloves), . 

Pimenta (Pimento), 

Oleum Cajuputi (Cajeput Oil), 

Oleum Terebinthinae (Oil of Turpentine 

Zingiber (Ginger), . 

Cardamomum (Cardamom) 

Calamus, 

Gaultheria, 

Aurantii Amari Cortex (Bitter 

Aurantii Dulcis Cortex (Sweet 

Those belonging to Nat. Ord. Labiatas, . 

Those belonging to Nat. Ord. UmbelliferEe 

Vanilla, 

Order VII. Sedatives, 

Aconitum (Aconite), • . . . 

Veratrum Viride (American Hellebore), 

Veratria, ...... 

Pulsatilla (Pasque-flower), 

Gelsemium (Yellow Jasmine), • . 

Arnica, 

Phytolacca, 



orange Peel), 
orange Peel), 



Staphisagria, 



PAGE 

185 
185 

185 
191 
192 
192 
193 
193 
197 
198 
198 
198 
198 
198 
199 
201 
203 
203 
204 
205 
205 
206 
206 
207 
208 
208 
208 
210 
211 
211 
212 
213 
213 
214 
216 
216 
217 
217 
218 
221 
222 
223 
225 
226 
227 



XIV CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

Antimonii Prseparata (Preparations of Antimony), . 228 

Potassii Nitras (Potassium Nitrate), .... 232 

Sodii Nitras (Sodium Nitrate), ..... 235 

Refrigerants, 235 

Potassii Citras (Potassium Citrate), .... 235 
Liquor Ammonii Acetatis (Solution of Ammonium Ace- 
tate), 236 

Spiritus iEtheris Nitrosi (Spirit of Nitrous Ether), . 237 

Acida Vegetabilia (Vegetable Acids), .... 237 

Order VIII. Spinants, 240 

Excito-motors, 240 

Nux Vomica, 240 

Strychnia, 241 

Strychnise Sulphas (Strychnia Sulphate), . . . 242 

Ignatia, 244 

Rhus Toxicodendron (Poison Oak), ... . 244 

Ergota (Ergot), . . . . . . . .244 

Ustilago (Corn Ergot), ... . . . .248 

Gossypii Radicis Cortex (Bark of Cotton Root), . . 248 

Digitalis, . .249 

Cimicifuga, 252 

Depresso-motors, . . . . . . . . . 254 

Conium, . . . 254 

Physostigma (Calabar Bean), 257 

Cocculus (Cocculus Indicus), ...... 259 

Woorara, ......... 260 

Viburnum, ......... 261 

Grindelia, . . . 262 

Sumbul, .263 

Class II. — Eccritics, . . . 265 

Order I. Emetics, . . ... . . . . .265 

Vegetable Emetics, 266 

Ipecacuanha, 266 

Sanguinaria (Bloodroot), 269 

Apomorphise Hydrochloras (Apomorphia Hydrochlor- 

ate), 271 

Sinapis (Mustard), . 272 

Mineral Emetics, . . . . . . . . . 272 

Order II. Cathartics, 273 

Laxatives, . . . . 274 

Tamarindus (Tamarind), 275 

Manna, 275 

Viola Tricolor (Heartsease), 276 

Cassia Fistula (Purging Cassia), 277 

Oleum Olivae (Olive Oil), 277 



CONTENTS. XV 

PAGE 

Oleum Amygdalae Expressum (Expressed Oil of Almond), 277 

Oleum Ricini (Castor Oil), 277 

Sulphur, 279 

Potassa Sulphurata (Sulphurated Potassa), . . . 280 

Saline Cathartics, 281 

Magnesia, . . . . . . . . 281 

Magnesia Ponderosa (Heavy Magnesia), .... 281 

Magnesii Carbonas (Magnesium Carbonate), . . . 282 
Magnesii Sulphas (Magnesium Sulphate), . . . 282 
Liquor Magnesii Citratis (Solution of Magnesium Cit- 
rate), 283 

Sodii Sulphas (Sodium Sulphate), 283 

Manganii Sulphas (Manganese Sulphate), . . . 284 
Sodii Phosphas (Sodium Phosphate), .... 284 
Potassii Sulphas (Potassium Sulphate), .... 285 
Potassii Bitartras (Potassium Bitartrate), . . . 286 
Potassii Tartras (Potassium Tartrate), .... 286 
Potassii et Sodii Tartras (Potassium and Sodium Tar- 
trate), 287 

Mild Acrid Cathartics, 287 

Rheum (Rhubarb), 287 

Juglans (Butternut), 290 

Aloe (Aloes), 291 

Senna, . . 293 

Frangula, 295 

Leptandra, 295 

Cascara Sagrada, . 296 

Sambucus (Elder), 296 

Drastic Cathartics, 297 

Jalapa (Jalap), ........ 297 

Bryonia (Bryony), 298 

Podophyllum (May Apple), 299 

Chelidonium, . . . . ! . . . 300 

Iris, . . . . .301 

Euonymus, . 301 

Scammonium (Scammony), 302 

Colocynthis (Colocynth), . . . . .303 

Cambogia (Gamboge), . . . . . . . 304 

Elaterinum (Elaterin), 305 

Oleum Tiglii (Croton Oil), . . . . . . .306 

Mercurial Cathartics, 307 

Enemata, 308 

Order III. Diaphoretics, 309 

Pilocarpus (Jaborandi), 310 

Alterative Diaphoretics, 312 



XVI 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE 

Sarsaparilla, 312 

GuaiaciLignum et Resina (Guaiacum Wood and Guaiac), 314 

Mezereum (Mezereon), . 315 

Menispermum, 316 

Calendula (Marigold), 316 

Sassafras, . 317 

Stillingia, 317 

Order IV. Diuretics, . . . . . ... . .318 

Potassii Acetas (Potassium Acetate), .... 319 

Sodii Acetas (Sodium Acetate), ..... 319 

Scilla (Squill), 320 

Colchicum, 322 

Erigeron, 324 

Apocynum (Indian Hemp), ...... 325 

Taraxacum (Dandelion), 326 

Triticum (Couchgrass), 327 

Juniperus (Juniper), 328 

Scoparius (Broom), 328 

Cantharis (Cantharides), . • . . . . . 329 

Hydrastis (Yellow Root), 329 

Petroselinum Sativum (Parsley), 329 

Order V. Blennorrhetics, * 330 

Senega (Senega), 330 

Quillaia (Soapbark), 332 

Allium (Garlic), 332 

Scilla (Squill), 333 

Terebinthina (Turpentine), ...... 333 

Oleum Terebinthinse (Oil of Turpentine), . . . 335 

Pix Liquida (Tar), 336 

Resina (Resin), 336 

Copaiba, 337 

Cubeba.(Cubeb), * . 339 

Oleum Santali (Oil of Santal), . . . . . . 340 

Matico, . . . 341 

Pareira, • 341 

Buchu, . . - . . . . . . . .342 

Uva Ursi, 342 

Chimaphila (Pipsissewa), 344 

Myrrha (Myrrh), ........ 345 

Benzoinum (Benzoin), . . 346 

Styrax (Storax), 347 

Balsamum Peruvianum (Balsam of Peru), . . . 347 

Balsamum Tolutanum (Balsam of Tolu), . . . 348 

Order VI. Emmenagogues, 349 

Sabina (Savine), . . . . * . . . 349 

Ruta (Rue), 350 



CONTENTS. XV11 

PAGE 

Class III. — Haematics, 351 

Order I. Haematinics, 351 

Order II. Alteratives, 351 

Hydrargyri Praeparata (Preparations of Mercury), . . 352 

Auri et Sodii Chloridum (Auric and Sodium Chloride), 368 

Iodura (Iodine), 368 

Sulphuris Iodidum (Sulphur Iodide), .... 372 

Potassii Iodidum (Potassium Iodide), .... 372 

Ammonii Iodidum (Ammonium Iodide), . . . 373 

Sodii Iodidum (Sodium Iodide), 374 

Iodoformum (Iodoform), ....... 374 

Oleum Morrhuae (Cod-liver Oil), . « . . . . 375 

Arsenii Praeparata (Preparations of Arsenic), . . 378 
Acidum Phosphoricum Dilutum (Diluted Phosphoric- 
Acid), 385 

Calcii Phosphas Praacipitatus (Precipitated Calcium 

Phosphate), 386 

Syrupus Calcii Lactophosphatis (Syrup of Calcium 

Lactophosphate), 386 

Calcii Hypophosphis (Calcium Hypophosphite), . . 386 
Potassii Hypophosphis (Potassium Hypophosphite), . 387 
Sodii Hypophosphis (Sodium Hypophosphite), . . 387 
Syrupus Hypophosphitum (Syrup of Hypophosphites), . 387 
Syrupus Hypophosphitum Cum Ferro (Syrup of Hypo- 
phosphites with Iron), 337 

Calcii Chloridum (Calcium Chloride), .... 388 

Ammonii Chloridum (Ammonium Chloride), . . 388 

Ammonii Phosphas (Ammonium Phosphate), . . 389 

Potassii Chloras (Potassium Chlorate), . . . . 390 

Potassii Bichromas (Potassium Bichromate), . . 391 

Order III. Antacids, 392 

Potassii Praeparata (Potassium Preparations), . . 394 

Sodii Praeparata (Sodium Preparations), . . . 395 

Lithii Praeparata (Lithium Preparations), . . . 398 

■ Ammonii Praeparata (Ammonium Preparations), . . 399 

Magnesii Praeparata (Magnesium Preparations), . . 399 

Calcii Praeparata (Calcium Preparations), . . . 400 

Class IV. — Topical Medicines, 402 

Order I.* Antiseptics, . . 402 

Potassii Permanganas (Potassium Permanganate), . 40;-J 

• Aqua Chlori {Chlorine Water), 404 

- Calx Chlorata (Chlorinated Lime), . . . . 404 

Liquor Sodas Chloratae (Solution of Chlorinated Soda), . 405 

Bromum (Bromine), . 405 

Iodum (Iodine), 405 

1* 



XV111 CONTENTS. 



Acidum Carbolicum (Carbolic Acid), .... 405 

Sodii Sulpho-carbolas (Sodium Sulpho-carbolate), . 409 

Creasotum (Creasote), 410 

Acidum Salicylicum (Salicylic Acid), .... 411 

Sodii Salicylas (Sodium Salicylate), .... 414 

Lithii Salicylas (Lithium Salicylate), .... 415 

Acidum Boricum (Boric [Boracic] Acid), . . . 415 

Sodii Boras (Sodium Borate — Borax), .... 416 

Acidum Benzoicum (Benzoic Acid), .... 417 

Sodii Benzoas (Sodium Benzoate), .... 417 

Ammonii Benzoas (Ammonium Benzoate), . . . 418 

Thymol, 418 

Order II. Irritants, 419 

Rubefacients, . . . . 419 

Sinapis (Mustard), . . 420 

Capsicum, 422 

Oleum Terebinthinse (Oil of Turpentine), . . . 423 

Linimentum Ammonise (Liniment of Ammonia), . . 423 

Pix Burgundica (Burgundy Pitch), .... 423 

Pix Canadensis (Canada Pitch), . . . . . 424 

Epispastics, 425 

Cantharis (Cantharides), 426 

Cantharis Vittata (Potato Flies), . . . ' . . 430 

Aqua Ammoniae (Water of Ammonia), .... 430 

Suppurants, 431 

Oleum Tiglii (Croton Oil), 431 

Unguentum Antimonii (Antimonial Ointment), . . 431 

Escharotics, 431 

Argenti Nitras Fusa (Fused Nitrate of Silver), . . 432 

Potassa, 432 

Potassa cum Calce (Potassa with Lime), . . . 433 

Soda, 434 

Acidum Chromicum (Chromic Acid), .... 434 

Acidum Arseniosum (Arsenious Acid), .... 434 

Bromum (Bromine), 435 

Zinci Chloridum (Zinc Chloride), . . ■-. . .435 

Liquor Hydrargyri Nitratis (Solution of Mercuric Nitrate), 436 
Hydrargyri Chloridum Corrosivum (Corrosive Chloride 

of Mercury), 436 

Potassii Bichromas (Potassium Bichromate), . . 436 

Acida Mineralia (Mineral Acids), . . . . . 436 

Sapo Viridis (Green Soap), 437 

Chrysarobinum (Chrysophanic Acid), .... 437 

Order III. Demulcents, . . 438 

Aqua (Water), 439 



CONTENTS. XIX 

PAGE 

Acacia (Gum Arabic), 440 

Tragacan'tha (Tragacanth), 443 

Linum (Flaxseed), . . . . . . . 443 

Oleum Gossypii Seminis (Cotton-seed Oil), . . . 444 

Ulmus (Slippery-elm Bark), 444 

Sassafras Medulla (Sassafras Pith), .... 445 

Althaea (Marshmallow), • . . 445 

Oleum Sesami (Oil of Benne), 446 

Cydonium (Quince Seed), 446 

Glycyrrhiza (Liquorice Root), ..... 447 
Glycyrrhizinum Ammoniatum (Ammoniated Glycyr- 

rhizin), 448 

Extractum Glycyrrhiza? (Liquorice), .... 448 

Cetraria (Iceland Moss), . . . . . . 448 

Chondrus (Irish Moss), 449 

Amylum (Starch), 450 

Glyceritum Amyli (Glycerite of Starch), . . .451 

Ichthyocolla (Isinglass), , 451 

Adeps (Lard), 451 

Sevum (Suet), . 452 

Cetaceum (Spermaceti), 452 

Cera (Wax), 452 

Acidum Oleicum (Oleic Acid), 452 

Oleum Theobromae (Oil of Theobroma), . . . 453 

Glycerinum (Glycerin), 454 

Petrolatum (Petroleum Ointment), 455 

Pyroxylinum (Pyroxylin), ...... 456 

Collodium (Collodion), 456 

Liquor Gutta-Perchae (Solution of Gutta-Percha), . 457 

Liquor Sodii Silicatis (Solution of Sodium Silicate), . 458 

Saccharum (Sugar), 458 

Mel (Honey), 459 

Saccharum Lactis (Sugar of Milk), . . . . 459 

Carbo Ligni (Charcoal), ..*.... 460 

Order IV. Colouring Agents, 460 

Crocus (Saffron), 460 

Santalum Rubrum (Red Saunders), .... 461 

Coccus (Cochineal), 461 

Order V. Anthelmintics, .462 

Spigelia, 462 

Chenopodium (Wormseed), 464 

Santonica, 465 

Santoninum (Santonin), . 465 

Sodii Santoninas (Sodii Santoninate), .... 466 

Azedarach, 466 



XX CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

Aspidium (Male Fern), 467 

Granatum (Pomegranate), 468 

Oleum Terebinthinse (Oil of Turpentine), . . . 468 

Calomel, . . 468 

Brayera (Koosso), 468 

Kamala, .......... 468 

Pepo (Pumpkin-Seed), ....... 469 



ERRATA. 

Page 28, line 27, in the 6th decennial revision of U. S. P. all articles are 
arranged in alphabetical order, and are no longer divided, as here- 
tofore, into a " primary " and "secondary list of Materia Medica" 
and a " list of preparations. " t ,. 

Page 70, line 28, for " Troussea" read " Trousseau." 

Page 77, line 17, the " extract of belladonna" is not officinal; an abstract (gr. 
j equals gr. ij of the powdered root) and a liniment (fluid extract 95 
per cent., camphor 5 per cent.) have been added to our list of prep- 
arations. 

Page 79, line 9, the u extract of stramonium leaves" is no longer officinal. 
The U. S. P. recognizes & fluid extract. 

Page 79, lines 15 and 22, " hyoscyamus seed" are no longer officinal. 

Page 80, line 11, the " extract of hyoscyamus" is not officinal; an abstract 
.has been added to the list. 

Pages -81 and 82, u tobacco" and its preparations have been omitted from the 
list of officinal medicines in the U. S. P. 

Page 85, a, fluid extract of lobelia is officinal. 

Page 85, lines 33 and 36, " aconite leaves" are not used. 

Page 88, line 8, " aconite leaves" are not officinal. 

Page 88, lines 9 and 10, omit " of the dried leaves." 

Page 88, line 10, omit " of the root." 

Page 88, lines 15 and 16, the " liniment and plaster" are not officinal. The 
sixth decennial revision of the U. S. P. has added an abstract and a 
fluid extract of aconite. 

Page 89, a fluid extract of Indian hemp is officinal. 

Page 90, line 32, the " tincture of lupulin" is not officinal. 

Page 111, line 32, insert "," after "tincture." 

Page 155, line 35, for " Ferrus" read " Ferrous." 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



The agents employed in the treatment of diseases are de- 
nominated Remedies, and the branch of medicine which is 
devoted to their consideration is termed Materia Medica. 
Remedies may be divided into Hygienic, Me chemical, Impon- 
derable, and Pharmacological agents. 

Hygienic Remedies are usually treated of in works spec- 
ially devoted to the subject. 



PART I. 

MECHANICAL REMEDIES. 

Mechanical Remedies belong chiefly to Surgery. A few 
agents of this class are,' however, employed in the practice of 
medicine, and are included in the Materia Medica. They are 
bloodletting (general and local), setons, issues, bandages, fric- 
tion, acupuncture, and aspiration. 

1. General Bloodletting is performed principally by 
venesection or phlebotomy, which is usually practiced on the 
median-cephalic or basilic veins of the arm — sometimes also 
on the external jugular and other veins. Arteriotomy is 
occasionally resorted to, on the temporal artery, in cerebral 
affections. 

Bloodletting is employed to moderate vascular excitement, 
reduce inflammatory action, relieve congestion, allay spasm 
2 



10 MATERIA MEDICA. 

and pain, relax the muscular system, promote absorption, and 
afrest hemorrhage ; and for these purposes it has long been 
considered a valuable therapeutical resource. So powerful 
and exhausting an agent is, however, always to be resorted 
to with caution and discrimination ; is not to be unduly 
repeated, even in inflammatory cases ; and is seldom or never 
proper in diseases of a typhoid tendency, or where a tuber- 
cular diathesis is suspected, or in extreme infancy and old age. 

2. The Local Abstraction of Blood is practiced by 
means of leeches, cups, and scarifications. The leech (hirudo) 
is an annulated aquatic worm, with a flattened body, tapering 
towards each end and terminating in circular flattened disks, 
which is found throughout Europe, America, and India. The 
European leech (h. medieinalis, termed also sanguisuga offici- 
nalis) is of a blackish or grayish-green colour on the back, 
from two to three or four inches in length, and is character- 
ized by six longitudinal dorsal ferruginous stripes, the four 
lateral ones being interrupted or tessellated with black spots. 
It draws about half a fluidounce. The American leech (A. 
decora) is usually from two to three inches long, and is of a 
deep green colour, with three longitudinal dorsal rows or square 
spots. Both the imported and indigenous leech are employed 
in this country, but the latter makes a smaller incision, and is 
preferable in infantile cases. It takes about a fluicldrachm. 
When the discharge of blood from leech-bites is excessive, it 
may be arrested by pressure, by compresses of lint, the appli- 
cation of alum, creasote, solution of iron subsulphate, and 
other styptics, or by cauterizing the wounds with silver nitrate 
or a red-hot probe : and if these means fail, the wounds may 
be sewed. 

In the operation of cupping, cupping-glasses and a scarifi- 
cator are employed. The removal of atmospheric pressure, 
by the application of glasses partially exhausted of air, pro- 
duces a determination of blood to the capillaries of a part, and 
it is afterwards readily drawn by scarification. When blood 
is not abstracted, the operation is termed dry cupping, and is 



MECHANICAL REMEDIES. 19 

a valuable revulsive agent. The topical abstraction of blood 
by leeches and cut cups combines the advantages of depletion 
and revulsion. Leeches are employed in external inflamma- 
tions, in situations where cups are inadmissible, and in infant- 
ile cases. Cups are generally preferable in internal inflam- 
mations, from their more decided revulsive influence. When 
blood is drawn by leeches, its continued flow may be promoted 
by the application of warm fomentations to the wounds. 

Scarifications are slight incisions made in inflamed parts, 
to relieve the engorged capillary vessels ; they are often em- 
ployed with benefit in inflammation of the conjunctiva and of 
the tonsils. 

3. Setons [set ace a) and Issues (fonticuli) are employed 
when a permanent counter-irritant effect is desired. A seton 
is established by passing through the integument a seton- 
needle, armed with a skein of silk ; or a piece of tape or a 
strip of sheet-lead may be used for the purpose. An issue is 
made with a cauterant, usually potassa ; and after the slough 
has separated, a discharge is maintained by the introduction 
of an issue-pea, for which purpose a common dried pea is used, 
or a dried unripe Curagoa orange, or a small round ball made 
of Florentine orris-root. 

4. Bandages are employed, in the practice of medicine, to 
promote the absorption of dropsical effusions. For the same 
purpose strips of adhesive plaster may be applied to the chest, 
in chronic pleurisy and empyema, in the manner in which they 
are employed in the treatment of fractured ribs. 

5. Frictions are useful as revellents and as local stimu- 
lants. They may be employed either with the dry hand or 
with horsehair gloves, or with liniments. 

6. Acupuncture consists in the introduction into the body 
of fine, well-polished, sharp-pointed needles, usually about three 
inches in length, and having a red wax, hard rubber, or metal 



20 MATERIA MEDICA. 

head ; they are introduced by a rapid rotary motion. This 
is a useful remedy in rheumatism, neuralgia, local paralysis, 
&c. By the use of insulated needles a galvanic current may 
be conveyed to deeply-seated nerves. For purposes of coun- 
ter-irritation a form of acupuncture is now used termed Baun- 
scheidtismus. In this an instrument is employed consisting of 
a heavy disk about half an inch in diameter, having inserted 
in it about twenty-five sharp needles, each about nine-six- 
teenths of an inch in length. To this disk is attached a strong 
wire spiral spring five and a half inches in length, and the 
other extremity of the spring is inserted in an elongated 
spindle-shaped handle, the spring and needles being contained 
in a cylinder, with the handle attached. In applying the in- 
strument the open extremity of the cylinder is placed upon 
the skin ; the handle is drawn up, and when this is suddenly 
loosed the needles are driven into the skin, the punctures being 
afterwards rubbed with diluted croton oil or other irritant. 

7. Pneumatic Aspiration is the employment of an instru- 
ment termed an Aspirator (invented by Dieulafoy) for the 
removal by suction of pathological fluids. 

The aspirator consists of — 

1. A glass bottle or reservoir, A, mounted with a two-way 

stop-cock, B, and having an opening at the bottom for 
the insertion of the tube C. 

2. An exhausting syringe, D, with elastic connecting tube, 

H. 

3. A tubular needle, E, to be attached to the reservoir by 

an India-rubber tube, F. 

A syringe and stop-cock for injecting astringents or other 
fluids is supplied if desired. The stop-cock is in such cases 
fixed to the tube F at its junction with the stop-cock B. Thus 
the tube can be detached from the aspirator without any chance 
of air entering the morbid cavity. 

Directions for Use. — Adjust the aspirator as figured in the 
diagram, with the stop-cock B turned vertically, that is, open 
to the bottle ; close the stop-cock in the tube C, and form a 



MECHANICAL REMEDIES. 



21 




22 MATERIA MEDICA. 

vacuum by a few upward and downward movements of the 
piston of the exhausting syringe D. 

Insert one of the needles beyond the two eyes, attach tube 
F to it, turn the stop-cock B towards the needle, namely, hor- 
izontally, and continue the insertion of the needle until fluid is 
seen to flow through the short glass tube Gr into the reservoir. 

To empty the latter, turn the stop-cock B vertically, detach 
the syringe tube and open the stop-cock in tube C. 

The presence of fluid having been established by the use of 
one of the fine needles, it is recommended for more quickly 
emptying the cavity to use one of the larger needles or trocars. 

The introduction of the needle into the tissues requires some 
precautions. In place of endeavouring to penetrate by press- 
ure, as with an ordinary trocar, it is preferable to combine 
pressure with rotation, by taking the needle in the forefinger 
and thumb and rolling it between them. Such a manoeuvre 
is rendered necessary by the extreme fineness of the needle, 
which would be liable to bend or twist if driven in by direct 
pressure. Before using a needle it is well to be assured of its 
permeability. 

Aspiration has been employed with safety and success in 
the removal of intrathoracic effusions (as in chronic pleurisy, 
empyema, and pericarditis), of the fluid of hydrocephalus, as- 
cites, cysts and abscesses of the liver, of the urine in reten- 
tion, and of poisonous liquids in the stomach. It is also ap- 
plicable to the diagnosis and treatment of morbid fluids and to 
the arrest of internal hemorrhage. 



IMPONDERABLE REMEDIES. 23 

PART II. 

IMPONDERABLE REMEDIES. 

Under this bead are included Light, Heat, Cold and Elec- 
tricity. 

1. Ligiit (Lux) exercises an important influence in the 
organized world as a vivifying stimulus. It is useful as a 
therapeutic agent, in diseases dependent on imperfect nutrition 
and sanguification ; and the exposure of the surface of the 
body to its action, as far as nudity is compatible with proper 
warmth, promotes the regular development and strength of the 
organs. On the other hand, in many diseases the action of 
light is injurious, and darkness is resorted to as a sedative and 
tranquillizing agent. 

2. Heat (Calor), applied to the human system in moderate 
amount, acts, both locally and generally, as a stimulant; in 
intense degree it destroys vitality and organization. It is 
employed as a local excitant and revulsive, by means of hot 
bottles, hot bricks, the hot foot-bath, &c, and as an appli- 
cation to painful and inflamed parts in the form of elastic bags 
containing hot water, and of poultices and fomentations. As 
a general application heat is chiefly resorted to in the form 
of the water-bath and vapour-bath. The warm bath, at a 
temperature from 92° to 98° E., is used as a relaxant in dis- 
locations, hernise, spasm, infantile convulsions, croup, &c, and 
also for its action on the skin in rheumatic and chronic cuta- 
neous affections. The hot bath has a temperature of from 98° 
to 112°, and is a powerful excitant in cases of exhaustion, 
asphyxia or suffocation, and is employed also in old paralytic 
and rheumatic cases. The hot air-bath, at a temperature of 
from 98° to 130°, is useful as an excitant, diaphoretic and 
revellent, and is employed in cases of internal congestion, to 



24 MATERIA MEDICA. 

produce vicarious action from the skin, where the secretion 
from other organs, as the kidneys, is suspended, and in rheu- 
matic, neuralgic and cutaneous affections. The hot vapour-bath 
is adapted to the same class of cases as the hot air-bath, and 
exerts a more marked diaphoretic and relaxing influence. 

The destructive agency of heat is resorted- to for the purpose 
of vesication, as by the application to the skin of a metallic 
plate heated to 212° by immersion in boiling water; and of 
cauterization, by the employment of red-hot iron, or of moxa. 
Hot iron (known as the actual cautery) is used chiefly as a 
styptic. The term moxa is applied to small masses of com- 
bustible matter (as cotton-wool), which are burnt slowly in 
contact with the skin, with a view to a revulsive effect in deep- 
seated inflammations, nervous affections, &c. 

3. Cold (Frigus). — The application of cold to living bodies 
produces a reduction of the temperature and volume of the 
parts, with contraction of the blood-vessels and other tissues, and 
suspension of the secretions and exhalations. The application 
of excessive or prolonged cold is followed by the torpor and 
death of the parts. When it is applied in moderation and for 
a short period, reaction generally takes place, with a return 
and even increase in temperature, volume, colour and sensi- 
bility. 

Cold is employed therapeutically, with a view to both its 
primary and secondary effects. The primary action of cold is 
used — 1. To lessen vascular and nervous excitement and pre- 
ternatural heat, as by the use of cold lotions and spongings in 
fevers, the ice-cap in cerebral affection, the shower-bath in 
insanity, the bladder filled with ice to the spine in epilepsy, 
the ether spray to the spine in chorea, &c. 2. To constringe 
the tissues, promote the coagulation of the blood and lessen 
the volume of parts ; hence the local application of ice or cold 
water to abate inflammation, check hemorrhage, cure aneurism, 
and reduce strangulated hernia. 3. To produce local anes- 
thesia in surgical operations, -by means of a freezing mixture 
topically applied. 



IMPONDERABLE REMEDIES. 25 

The secondary effects of cold are obtained by the employ- 
ment of a less intense degree of cold. They are resorted to — 
1. To invigorate the system, as with the cold shower-bath and 
plunge-bath. 2. To rouse the system, as by cold affusions in 
coma, asphj^xia, syncope, and the narcotism from opium, chlo- 
roform, hydrocyanic acid, alcohol, &c. 3. In spasmodic dis- 
eases, as laryngismus stridulus, chorea, &c. 4. To recall the 
vital properties to frost-bitten parts. 5. To effect local exci- 
tation, as by the application of the cold douche to rheumatic 
and paralyzed limbs. 

The cold bath, or packing in a cold wet sheet, is employed 
with much advantage in sun-stroke, and in fevers where the 
temperature of the body is very high, as scarlet fever, typhoid 
fever, acute rheumatism, and, generally, to reduce excessive 
hyperpyrexia. 

The ice-bag is sometimes applied along the spine in convul- 
sive diseases, as epilepsy, tetanus and infantile convulsions, 
and even in diseases of the secreting organs. 

Compresses, wrung out of cold water, are efficient local ap- 
plications in relieving pain, even the severe pain of gout. 

Cold liquids and ice are taken into the stomach as refrig- 
erants in fevers. They are introduced into the rectum and 
vagina to check hemorrhage and allay irritation; and cold 
water, injected into the impregnated uterus, is among the most 
certain means of inducing premature delivery. Baths are also 
useful in promoting the elimination of mineral poisons, as lead 
and mercury. 

4. Electricity (Mectricitas). — The electric current acts as 
an excitant to the nerves both of sensation and motion. It 
influences to some extent also the secretions, through its action 
on the nerves distributed to the secreting organs; it may pro- 
mote the function of absorption, through an effect on the 
absorbents ; and it affects the circulation by inducing contrac- 
tions of the heart. A powerful charge of electricity produces 
violent and frequently fatal effects on the central nervous 
system. 



26 MATERIA MEDICA. 

For medical purposes electricity is obtained from three 
sources : 

1. Friction or static electricity. 

2. Galvanic electricity. 

8. Faradic, induced, magnetic, or voltao-magnetic 
electricity. 

Friction electricity may be applied in three modes : 1. By 
the electric bath, when the patient, placed upon an insulated 
stool and connected with the prime conductor of an electrical 
machine, is charged with electricity. 2. By a spark to a 
particular part. Or, 3, a shock through a charged Leyden jar 
may be directed through the part which it is desired to affect. 

Galvanism is that form of electricity which is developed 
by chemical decomposition, and is known as. the continuous, 
Voltaic or battery current. It is characterized by relatively 
low intensity of action, but is developed in considerable quan- 
tity, and produces chemical and thermic results that are not 
reached by the friction electricity. In addition, it induces a 
flow of blood to a part by increasing the vermicular action of 
the vessels. 

Faradization, Faradism, induced or magneto-electric 
electricity is applied by means of electro-magnetic machines. 
It is inferior in chemical and thermal influence to galvanism, 
but it produces more marked contraction of muscles and a more 
powerful action on the nerves both of sensation and motion. 

Electricity is employed in medicine both for diagnostic and 
therapeutic uses. Thus, in the diagnosis of spinal paralysis : 
when a muscle is merely separated from the influence of the 
spinal cord, by destruction of its nerve, or by destructive 
disease of the cord at the origin of its nerve, it loses its elec- 
tric irritability to all forms of electric irritation ; in cerebral 
paralysis, on the other hand, there is no diminution in the 
contractility of the paralyzed muscles by the electric current, 
and there may be even an increase. ' In malingering, real may 
be distinguished from feigned paralysis, as, after railway acci- 
dents, faradization, by showing a "marked difference in the 
contractility of the two sides, establishes the fact of an actual 



PHARMACOLOGICAL REMEDIES. 27 

morbid condition. In recent hysterical paralysis the contrac- 
tility of the muscles is unimpaired. 

Therapeutically, electricity may be employed either to 
arouse or increase the action of a nerve or muscle, as in paral- 
ysis of sensation or of motion, or to reduce or even tempo- 
rarily abolish this action, as in pain, neuralgia, and spasm, 
either tonic or clonic. It is chiefly available in cases of local 
or functional paralysis, which are independent of lesion of the 
nervous centres, or in lead palsy, after the elimination of lead 
from the system. In anemic and hysterical paralysis,' as hys- 
terical aphonia, static electricity is often very useful ; and in 
nervous deafness and amaurosis, under many circumstances, 
faradization will produce good results. 

Electricity has been prescribed also as an emmenagogue, to 
produce contraction of the uterus in post-partum hemorrhage, 
to overcome constipation, to promote the biliary secretion, and 
to heal ulcers. In many cases of disordered secretion, as 
chronic coryza and ozoena, galvanic or faradic electrization will 
be found efficacious. It has also been resorted to with success 
to induce the absorption of tumours and indurations. Electro- 
magnetism is a powerful excitant in the coma resulting from 
narcotic poisons, and in asphyxia generally, and is probably 
the most active remedy that can be exhibited in these cases. 
The galvano-cautery (a knife or needle connected with a bat- 
tery) has also been lately employed with success in surgical 
operations. 



PART III. 

PHARMACOLOGICAL REMEDIES. 

Pharmacological Remedies, or Medicines, are substances 
not essentially alimentary, which, when applied to the body, so 
alter or modify its vital functions as to be rendered applicable 
to the treatment of diseases. 



28 MATERIA MEDICA. 

The designation Materia Medica, or Pharmacology, is, 
strictly speaking, limited to the consideration of medicines. 
The application of medicines to the treatment of diseases is 
termed Therapeutics. Pharmacy is the department of Ma- 
teria Medica which treats of the collection, preparation, pres- 
ervation, and dispensation of medicines. 

To the student of medicine, the objects of examination in 
relation to medicines are — the sources from which they are 
derived; the mode in which thej are prepared and brought to 
market; their sensible qualities, and also their chemical com- 
position and relations; their physiological effects, or the effects 
which they are capable of producing in healthy individuals; 
their therapeutical effects, or those which they produce in morbid 
states of the system; and, lastly, the doses, modes of adminis- 
tration, and preparations (extemporaneous and officinal), under 
which they are administered. 

To facilitate a uniform nomenclature and dispensation of 
medicines, authoritative works have been issued in different 
countries, termed Pharmacopoeias. The Pharmacopoeia of the 
United States was first promulgated by the authority of a con- 
vention held at Washington, in 1820, and it has been since re- 
vised decennially. It furnishes a list of articles which are in 
general use, sets forth the weights and measures which are em- 
ployed in dispensing and preparing them, and supplies formulae 
for such preparations as should be kept in the shops, and which 
are thence termed officinal, from the Latin word officina, a shop. 
It is divided into three portions: a primary list of the materia 
medica, containing articles of assured reputation, a secondary 
list of articles of less importance, and a division of preparations. 
A Dispensatory differs from a Pharmacopoeia in containing the 
medical and physical history of the various substances; the 
Pharmacopoeia is mainly restricted to the mode of preparing 
them ; it is officinal, while the Dispensatory is not. 

The effects of medicines take place either in the parts to 
which they are applied or in distant parts of the system. 
The former are termed local or topical effects ; the latter, re- 
mote or constitutional effects. 



MODUS OPERANDI OF MEDICINES. 29 

MODUS OPERANDI OF MEDICINES. 

The medium through which the influence of medicines is ex- 
erted on remote parts of the body, or their modus operandi (as 
it is usually termed), was long a contested point. Until within 
a comparatively recent period, it was maintained that the im- 
pressions of medicines and poisons were transmitted from the 
parts receiving them to distant parts, by means of a communi- 
cation through the nerves. But it is now generally admitted 
that the absorption or passage of the medicinal or poisonous 
molecules into the blood is necessary to their action on parts 
remote from the seat of impression. 

While, however, it is well established that the characteristic 
action of medicines is transmitted to the parts influenced, ex- 
clusively through the medium of the circulation, it is undeniable 
that the functions of the nervous system may be secondarily 
excited by a local medicinal impression. The number of agents 
which operate in this manner is, however, very limited. 

The action of medicines by absorption is proved by a variety 
of facts. 

They are detected in many parts of the system remote from 
that to which they have been applied, having been found in the 
blood, the solids, and the excretions, after being taken into the 
stomach. If the circulation be interrupted, the influence of a 
poison cannot be transmitted ; wmile its effects have been ob- 
tained, when applied to a wound in the foot of an animal, after 
all parts of the extremity have been severed except the artery 
and vein. In confirmation of the doctrine of absorption may 
be cited also the admitted facts, that the remote effects of 
medicines or poisons are promoted or retarded by circum- 
stances which promote or retard absorption ; that the blood of 
poisoned animals is found to possess poisonous properties; that 
the fluids and solids acquire medicinal properties after the use 
of medicines (as the milk of nurses); that the specific effects of 
medicines are produced by their injection into the blood; and 
that medicines disappear from closed cavities into which they 
are introduced. 



30 MATERIA' MEDICA. 

After their absorption into the blood, medicines circulate 
with it, penetrate through the capillaries to the various organs, 
and are afterwards thrown out of the system with the excre- 
tions. Some medicines produce changes in the condition of the 
circulating fluid. Others have a specific action upon some one 
or other of the organs of the body. And, in passing out of the 
system, most medicines act as excitants of the organs by which 
they are thrown out. 

The absorption of medicines is effected principally by the 
veins, and in some degree also by the lymphatics and lacteals. 
The medicinal particles penetrate or soak through the inter- 
stices of the tissue with which they are placed in contact, and 
are thence diffused through the circulation. To a limited ex- 
tent,, medicinal substances probably penetrate all the tissues of 
the part to which they are applied, and in this way the activity 
of medicines is most decided upon the organs contiguous to the 
seat of application. 

The absorption of insoluble substances cannot take place 
until they are previously rendered soluble. In the stomach, 
this is accomplished partly by the agency of the acids of diges- 
tion, and partly by the albuminoid constituents of the gastric 
fluid. Some substances are dissolved by the alkaline liquids 
of the small intestine. 

It is objected to the theory of the operation of medicines by 
absorption, that certain poisons act with a rapidity incompati- 
ble with their previous introduction into the circulation. This 
is, however, not the fact, as the action of the most violent 
poisons (hydrocyanic acid, for example) is never wholly instan- 
taneous; and careful experiments have shown that the velocity 
of the circulation is sufficient to diffuse a poison through the 
blood in a shorter space of time than its effects are ever observed 
on the system. 



CIRCUMSTANCES WHICH MODIFY THE EFFECTS OF MEDICINES. 

The circumstances which modify the effects of medicines 
relate both to the medicines and to the human system. 



FORMS IN WHICH MEDICINES ARE USED. 31 

1. The properties of medicines are modified by the soil in 
which they grow, by climate, cultivation, age, and the season 
of the year at which they are gathered. 

2. Medicines are more active, because more readily absorbed, 
in a state of solution than in a solid state. 

3. Soluble medicines are often rendered inert by a chemical 
reaction which converts them into insolubles; in this way anti- 
dotes modify the effects of poisons. When the chemical com- 
position of medicines involves their mutual decomposition, they 
are said to be incompatible. 

4. Differences in dose greatly modify the effects of medicines. 

5. Pharmaceutical modifications have an important influence 
on the efficacy of medicines. They may be exhibited in the 
solid, semi-solid, liquid, and aeriform states : 

In the solid state, they are administered in the shape of pow- 
ders, pills, lozenges, confections, and papers. 

In the liquid state, they are administered in the shape of 
mixtures, solutions, medicated waters, infusions, decoctions, 
tinctures, spirits, wines, juices, vinegars, honeys, syrups, and 
glycerites. 

In the semi-solid, or soft state, they are employed internally, 
in the form of suppositories, and externally, in that of lini- 
ments, ointments, cerates, plasters, and cataplasms. 

In the form of gases and vapours, medicines are used for 
purposes of inhalation. 

SOLIDS. 

Powders (Pulveres). The form of powder is usually se- 
lected for the administration of medicines which are not very 
bulky, nor of very disagreeable taste, which have no corrosive 
property, and which do not deliquesce rapidly on exposure. 
Deliquescent substances, and such as contain a large proportion 
of fixed or volatile oil, should always be recently pulverized, as 
they deteriorate when kept. Most substances employed in the 
form of powder are usually pulverized on a large scale. For 
the purpose of pulverizing drugs 'in small quantity, the phy- 



32 MATERIA MEDICA. 

sician makes use of a pestle and mortar, of iron, brass, glass, 
Wedgewood-ware, or marble, the finer particles being after- 
wards separated from the coarser by a sieve. In some cases, 
a stone slab and muller are used. Some powders are obtained 
by precipitation ; and the finer particles of a powder are often 
separated from the coarser by a process termed elutriation, in 
which the powder is diffused through water, the heavier por- 
tions being first allowed to subside, and, the liquid being poured 
off, the finer particles settle separately. 

Salts of difficult pulverization are often granulated, by 
making a hot saturated solution of the salt, and filtering and 
stirring the filtered liquid until cool. Of late years, granu- 
lated effervescing salts have been used in imitation of the 
waters of mineral springs, the effervescence being produced 
by the addition of sodium bicarbonate and tartaric or citric 
acid. 

The lighter powders may be administered in water or other 
thin liquid. The heavier powders require a more consistent 
vehicle, as syrup, treacle, or honey. 

Pills (Pihilce) are small globular masses, of a semi-solid 
consistence, and of a size that can be conveniently swallowed. 

The form of pill is suitable for the exhibition of medicines 
which are not bulky, and are of disagreeable' taste or smell, 
or insoluble in water. Deliquescent substances should not be 
made into pills, and those which are efflorescent should be 
previously deprived of their water of crystallization. 

Some substances are readily made into pills with the addi- 
tion of a little water or spirit. Very soft or liquid substances 
require the addition of some dry inert powder, as bread-crumb 
or powdered gum Arabic, to reduce them to a proper consist- 
ence. Wax is a good excipient for oils. 

Heavy powders are mixed with some soft solid, as confection 
of rose, plasma, manna, &c, or with a tenacious liquid, as 
treacle or syrup. When the pilular mass is properly prepared, 
it is rolled with a spatula into a cylinder of uniform thickness, 
and is then divided into the' required number of pills, with the 



FORMS IN WHICH MEDICINES ARE USED. 33 

spatula, or, more accurately, with a pill-tile, or with a pill- 
machine. The pills are rolled into spherical form between the 
fingers; and, to prevent adhesion, are dusted with some dry 
powder, as powdered liquorice-root, lycopodium, orris-root, 
starch, or magnesium carbonate. They should weigh from 
one to four grains, unless metallic, when a weight of from six 
to eight grains is admissible ; a large pill is termed a bolus. 
When long kept, pills may pass unchanged through the 
stomach and bowels, and are therefore objectionable. To 
conceal the taste and smell of pills, they are sometimes coated 
with gelatin, collodion, mucilage, sugar, etc. When they are 
designed to be of slow T operation, the modern practice of sugar- 
coating pills answers very well. But, when they are intended 
to act quickly, the coating is objectionable, as it retards the 
solution of the pills in the gastric fluids. Pills are now some- 
times made without excipients, simply by subjecting medicinal 
substances to pressure in moulds ; in this way, extraneous 
matter is avoided, and smaller bulk is secured. 

Troches or Lozenges (Trochisci) are small, dry, solid masses, 
made of pow T ders with sugar and mucilage, and intended to be 
held in the mouth and allowed to dissolve slowly. Mucilage 
of tragaeanth is usually employed in preparing lozenges. 

Confections (Confectiones) are soft solid preparations, 
made with some saccharine matter. They are subdivided into 
Conserves and Electuaries : the former consist of combinations 
of recent vegetable substances and refined sugar, beat into a 
uniform mass: the latter are extemporaneous mixtures of med- 
icines, usually dry powders, with syrup, honey, or treacle. 

Papers (Chartce) are preparations designed for external ap- 
plication, which are made by spreading mixtures of medicinal 
substances, as cantharides or mustard, upon paper. 

LIQUIDS. 

Mixtures (Misturce) are preparations of insoluble substan- 
ces, suspended in water by means of gum arabic, sugar, the 

3 



34 MATERIA MEDICA. 

yolk of eggs, or other viscid matter. When the suspended 
substance is oleaginous the mixture is termed an emulsion. 

Solutions (Liquores) are solutions (chiefly aqueous) of non- 
volatile substances, which are wholly soluble in the menstruum 
employed. In making solutions, and all other aqueous prep- 
arations, the water used should be fresh river, rain or distilled 
water, and free from saline impurities. 

Medicated Waters (Aquce) are preparations consisting of 
water holding volatile or gaseous substances in solution. They 
are best made by distilling water from plants containing vol- 
atile oils, and are thence termed distilled waters. In place of 
distillation, trituration with magnesium carbonate (afterwards 
separated by filtration) is often employed to impregnate water 
with volatile oils ; but the watery distillates have a more del- 
icate fragrance and flavour. 

Infusions (Infusa) are partial solutions of vegetable sub- 
stances in water, obtained without the aid of ebullition. They 
are made with both hot and cold water ; the former extracts 
the soluble principles more rapidly and in larger proportion ; 
the latter is preferred when the active principles would be in- 
jured by heat or when it is desirable not to take up some 
matter insoluble at a low temperature. Infusions have been 
usually made by pouring water upon the substances to be in- 
fused and allowing it to remain upon them for some time in a 
tightly-covered vessel ; when the process takes place at a heat 
of from 60° to 90° it is termed maceration ; when at a heat 
of from 90° to 100°, digestion. Of late years a more efficient 
mode of extracting the medicinal virtues of plants has been 
introduced, termed percolation or displacement. In this oper- 
ation the medicinal substance is coarsely powdered and placed 
in a conical or nearly cylindrical instrument called a percolator, 
in the lower part of which is fitted a porous or colander-like 
partition or diaphragm. The powder is then saturated with 
water or other menstruum till it will absorb no more ; and, 
after they have remained for some time in contact, fresh por- 



FORMS IN WHICH MEDICINES AEE USED. 35 

tions of the menstruum are added, till the required quantity is 
employed. The fresh liquid, as it is successively added, per- 
colates the solid particles of the medicinal substance, driving 
the previously-saturated liquid before it ; and in this "way com- 
pletely exhausts the substance to be dissolved. An ordinary 
glass funnel answers very well for percolation ; and a circular 
piece of muslin or lint, pressed into the neck by means of a 
cork with notched sides, forms. a good diaphragm — care being 
taken to interpose a similar piece of muslin, moistened slightly 
with the menstruum, between the diaphragm and powder.* 

Decoctions (Decocta) are partial solutions of vegetable 
substances in water, in which the active principles are obtained 
by ebullition. This is a more rapid and efficient mode of ex- 
tracting the virtues of plants than by infusion. But it As 
objectionable when the proximate principles are volatile at a 
boiling heat or undergo decomposition by ebullition. In mak- 
ing decoctions ebullition should be continued for a few minutes 
only, and the liquid should be allowed to cool slowly in a close 
vessel. As they are apt to spoil, they should be prepared only 
when wanted for use. 

1 Tinctures (Tincturce) are solutions of medicinal substances 
in alcohol or diluted alcohol. The aromatic spirit of ammonia 
and ethereal spirit are also sometimes employed as solvents ; 
and solutions in these menstrua are called ammoniated tinctures 
and ethereal tinctures. Alcohol or rectified spirits (of a sp. gr. 
0.835, according to the U. S. Pharmacopoeia) is employed in 
making tinctures of substances nearly or quite insoluble in 

* A process termed dialysis has lately been introduced, based upon the 
different diffusibility of liquids, by which mixed substances are separated 
from each other. For this purpose an apparatus termed a dialyser is em- 
ployed, which consists of a circular glass basin, containing distilled water, 
in which floats a smaller vessel, the bottom of which is made of parchment- 
paper, and which holds the liquid to be submitted to dialysis. If a watery 
liquid, containing both crystalloid and gelatinous matter, be subjected to 
the dialyser, it will be found that, after a time, a portion of the former 
will pass through the parchment and be held in solution by the distilled 
water of the larger vessel. 



36 MATERIA MEDICA. 

water, as the resins, iodine, &c. Diluted alcohol or proof spirit 
(consisting of equal measures of officinal alcohol and water) is 
preferred, when the substance is soluble both in alcohol and 
water, or when some of its ingredients are soluble in the one 
menstruum and some in the other. Tinctures have been usu- 
ally prepared by maceration or digestion, more commonly by 
the former process, and a period of two weeks is recommended 
for its duration. It should be. conducted in well-closed glass 
vessels, which should be frequently shaken ; and when the 
maceration is completed, the tincture should be separated from 
the dregs by filtration. The U. S. Pharmacopoeia now recom- 
mends percolation in making most tinctures, and, in the hands 
of skilful pharmaceutists, this process is preferable, as the 
most thorough mode of exhausting medicinal substances ; but, 
where the operator cannot trust himself, it is better to recur to 
the old process of maceration. Tinctures should be kept in 
bottles accurately stoppered to prevent evaporation, which might 
seriously increase their strength. 

The form of tincture is adapted to the exhibition of medi- 
cines which are to be given in small quantity, and it affords a 
convenient mode of graduating doses. In prescribing large 
and continued doses of tinctures, the stimulating effects of the 
alcohol which they contain must be borne in mind. 

Spirits (Spiritus) are alcoholic solutions of volatile or 
gaseous principles, properly speaking procured by distillation, 
but now usually prepared by dissolving the volatile principles 
in alcohol or diluted alcohol. The spirits of the aromatic 
vegetable oils are used to give a pleasant odour and taste to 
mixtures, to correct the nauseating and griping effects of cathar- 
tics, and also as carminatives and stomachics. 

Wines [Vina) are solutions of medicinal substances in 
sherry or other white wine. They are more liable to decom- 
position than tinctures, and are of variable strength ; but they 
are in some cases preferred, from the less stimulating character 
of the menstruum, which has also sometimes an increase of 
solvent power, from the acid which it contains. 



FORMS IN WHICH MEDICINES ARE USED. 37 

Juices {Succi) are the expressed juices of fresh plants, 
preserved by the addition of one-fifth of their measure of 
alcohol. 

Vinegars (Aceta) are infusions or solutions of medicinal 
substances in distilled vinegar or diluted acetic acid, which is a 
particularly good solvent of many vegetable principles, as the 
organic alkalies. 

Honeys (Mellita) are preparations of medicinal substances 
in honey. 

Syrups (Syrupi) are preparations of medicinal substances 
in concentrated solutions of sugar. The term syrup (syrupus), 
or simple syrup, is applied to a solution of sugar (thirty-six 
troyounces) in water (Oij f oxij), dissolved with the aid of heat. 
Medicated syrups are usually made by incorporating refined 
sugar with vegetable infusions, decoctions, expressed juices, 
fermented liquors, or simple aqueous solutions. They may 
also be prepared by adding a tincture to simple syrup, and 
afterwards evaporating the alcohol ; or by mixing the tincture 
with sugar in coarse powder, and dissolving the impregnated 
sugar, after evaporation, in the necessary proportion of water. 
Syrups are apt to be spoiled by heat, and should be made in 
small quantities at a time. 

By the evaporation of the solutions of vegetable principles, 
a very useful class of preparations, termed Extracts (Extracta), 
is obtained. They are prepared from infusions, decoctions, 
tinctures, and vinegars ; and sometimes, in the case of recent 
vegetables, from the expressed juices of plants, usually diluted 
with water. Extracts prepared by the agency of water are 
termed watery extracts ; those by means of alcohol, alcoholic 
extracts ; those by means of acetic acid, acetic extracts. The 
evaporation of extracts is generally continued till they have a 
pilular consistence. Within a few years, however, these prep- 
arations have been employed in the liquid form, under the 
name of Fluid Extracts (Extracta Fluida), which have the 



38 MATERIA MEDICA. 

advantage of convenience of administration, and of being pre- 
pared at a less degree of heat. They are more liable than the 
solid extracts to spontaneous decomposition ; and this difficulty 
is usually counteracted by means of sugar. In making the 
fluid extracts, alcohol and glycerin are the menstrua chiefly 
resorted to. The portion of the solvent which remains after 
evaporation contributes in some degree to the preservation of 
the preparation. 

Glycerites (Grlycerita) are solutions of medicinal sub- 
stances in glycerin, made by rubbing them together in a 
mortar. 

The Oleoresins (Oleoresince) are extracts obtained by the 
agency of ether, which consist of fixed or volatile oils, holding 
resins and sometimes other active matters in solution. They 
retain a liquid or semi-liquid state, upon the evaporation of the 
menstruum employed in their preparation, and have the prop- 
erty of self-preservation. 

SEMI-SOLIDS. 

Suppositories (Suppositoria) are soft solids, made by 
mixture of a medicinal substance with the oil of theobroma, 
usually in a conical form, of a weight of thirty grains, and 
designed for introduction into the rectum. They are employed 
with a view both to a local effect on the lower bowel and also 
to the gradual absorption of the medicinal substance. As the 
solvent action of the fluids of the rectum is much less than that 
of those of the stomach, only readily soluble medicines should 
be introduced in this way, for a constitutional effect ; absorp- 
tion, too, takes place less rapidly from the rectum than from 
the stomach. 

Liniments (Linimenta) are oily preparations designed for 
external use, usually thicker than water, but always liquid at 
the temperature of the body. 



FORMS IN WHICH MEDICINES ARE USED. 39 

Ointments ( Unguenta) are preparations of a consistence 
like that of butter, made with lard or some other fatty sub- 
stance. They are fitted for application to the skin by friction 
or inunction. Most of the ointments become rancid when long 
kept, and it is therefore best to prepare them only as wanted 
for use. Vaseline (not officinal), a straw-coloured ointment, 
made from petroleum (unguentum petrolei), not decomposable, 
is a superior unguent for general purposes. The term oint- 
ment (unguentum) is applied to a mixture of one part of yellow 
wax and four parts of lard. 

Cerates (Oerata) are made of oil or lard, mixed with wax, 
spermaceti, or resin, with the addition of various medicinal 
substances. They are of harder consistence than ointments, 
and do not melt when applied to the skin. The term cerate 
(ceratum) is applied to a mixture of one part of white wax and 
two parts of lard. 

Plasters (Emplastra) are adhesive at the temperature of 
the body, and must generally be heated to be spread. Some 
substances have sufficient consistence and adhesiveness to be 
made into plasters. Usually, however, medicinal substances, 
when employed in this form, are mixed with Lead Plaster or 
Litharge Plaster (Emplastrum Plumbi), a compound of olive 
oil and litharge. Plasters are prepared for use by spreading 
them upon sheepskin, linen, or muslin, with a margin a quarter 
or half inch broad. 



Cataplasms or Poultices (Cataplasmata) are soft, moist 
substances intended for external use. The common emollient 
poultice, employed to relieve inflammation and to promote sup- 
puration, is made by mixing bread-crumbs with boiling milk, 
or powdered, flaxseed with boiling water. A fabric termed 
spongio-piline, consisting principally of sponge, has lately been 
used as a substitute for the old poultice, and, when saturated 
with hot water, is a good vehicle of heat and moisture. 



40 MATERIA MEDICA. 

GASES AND VAPOURS. 

When employed in this form medicines are administered by 
inhalation. This may be effected either by diffusing the gas 
or. vapour through the air to be respired by the patient ; or by 
inclosing it in a bag or bottle with a suitable tube, through 
which the patient may breathe ; or, when ethereal vapours are 
employed, by saturating a sponge or handkerchief with the 
ether and applying it to the mouth and nostrils of the patient ; 
or the fumes of burning medicinal substances may be inhaled, 
by means of cigarettes or pipes, variously contrived. 

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 

In prescribing and dispensing medicines the following are 
the weights and measures employed in the United States, with 
their signs annexed : 



TROY OR APOTHECARIES WEIGHT. 

The pound, fb ] 
The ounce 
The drachm 
The scruple 



contains 



Twelve ounces, ^. 
Eight drachms, g. 
Three scruples, ^« 
Twenty grains, gr. 



The term pound should be avoided in formulae, owing to the 
danger of mistakes from confounding the troy pound with the 
heavier avoirdupois pound, and large weights should be ex- 
pressed in troyounees. The drachm and scruple are also now 
disused by the United States Pharmacopoeia, and are replaced 
by their equivalents in grains. The troyounce contains 480 
grains ; the drachm, 60 grains. 

In France and other parts of the continent of Europe a 
system of metrical weights is employed, which system has for 
its unit the meter (39.37 inches), which is the ten-millionth 
part of the distance from the pole to the equator measured on 
any meridian. From this basis all other weights and measures 
are calculated. It is a decimal system, all the divisions being 
obtained by the multiple ten. The names given to the different 



FORMS IN WHICH MEDICINES ARE USED. 41 

multiples and divisions of the unit are indicated by prefixes 
derived from the Latin and Greek. 

FOR SUBDIVISION. 

C Milli indicates the T oVo °f tne un ^- 
Latin. ) Centi « » T fa " " 

^Deci " " j-L " " 

FOR MULTIPLICATION. 

' Deca indicates 10 times the unit. 

Hecto " 100 " " 

Kilo " 1,000 " " 

fc Myria " 10,000 " " 



Greek. - 



In the metric system fluids as well as solids are expressed 
by weight, consequently the gram (unit of weight) and its 
decimal divisions enter only into the calculation of a prescrip- 
tion. A gram is the weight of a cubic centimeter of water at 
4° C. The subdivisions of the gram are, milligram, centigram 
and decigram ; the multiplications, decagram, hectogram, &c. 
Instead of using the latter terms the total is better expressed 
in grams. The sign Gm. is used to denote gram, c. c, cubic 
centimeter, and to denote quantity, Arabic figures ; the latter 
should precede the symbol. In prescribing liquids allowance 
must be made for the relation existing between sp. gr. and 
bulk. In each case, of spirits, tinctures and oils y 1 ^- less, of 
stronger ether J less, of spirit nitric ether £ less, of glycerin 
J more, of syrup J more, of chloroform J more, must be or- 
dered. In the case of spirits and tinctures the difference is so 
slight that it may be disregarded. Rules for expressing quan- 
tity by weight of the troy system in metric terms : A. Reduce 
the quantity to grains and divide by 15 ; the quotient expresses 
the quantity in grams (nearly). B. Reduce each quantity to 
drachms and multiply the number by 4 ; the product is the 
number of grams representing nearly the same quantity. 
These rules are to be employed in changing fluid measures to 
grams. In round numbers 1 f§=31 c. c. 1 c. c. or gm.=gr. 
15J of distilled water. It has been suggested to use the term 
flui-gram for c. c. (Mann and Oldberg.) 



42 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



COMPARATIVE TABLE OP DECIMAL WITH TROY WEIGHTS. 



Names. 


Equivalent in 
Grams. 


Equivalent in 
Grains. 


Equivalent in Trot 
Weight. 


Milligram, 

Centigram, 

Decigram, 


•001 

•01 

•1 


•0154 

•1543 

1-5434 


ft) 


S 5 gr. 
l 

i 

6 

1-5 


Gram, 


1 


15-4340 




15-4 


Decagram, 
Hectogram, 


10 
100 


154-3402 
1543-4023 




2 34-0 
3 1 43-0 


Kilogram, 


1000 


15434-0234 


2 


8 1 14- 


Myriagram, 


10000 


154340-2344 


26 


9 4 20- 



The gallon, C. 
The pint 
The fluidounce 
The fluidrachm 



WINE OR APOTHECARIES MEASURE. 

r Eight pints, O. 



contains 



Sixteen fluidounces, fg. 
Eight fluidrachms, f 3- 
Sixty minims, TT\,. 



The term gallon is not used by the U. S. Pharmacopoeia, 
that measure being always expressed in pints. 

Liquid measures are sometimes prescribed by drops, which, 
however, vary in quantity according to the nature of the 
liquid, the shape and size of the vessel from which it is dropped, 
and even the amount of liquid which the vessel contains. 
(Thus, a fluidrachm of distilled water contains only 45 drops, 
while this measure of alcohol and of most tinctures contains 120 
drops, and of chloroform, 220 drops, or even more.) Approxi- 
mate measurements are also frequently employed in prescribing 
the less powerful liquids : thus a teacup is used for f giv, .or a gill ; 
a wineglass for fgij ; a tablespoon for f§ss; a teaspoon for f5j. 



TABLE FOR 


CONVERTING 


CUBIC 


CENTIMETERS 


INTO 


FLUIDRACHMS 




Cubic 
Centimeters. 


O. 


1. 


3. 

dr. m. 


3. 

dr. m. 


4. 

dr. m. 


5. 


6. 


7. 


8. 

dr. m. 


9. 

dr. m. 


dr. m. 


dr. m. 


dr. m. 


dr. m. 


dr. m. 








16 


32 


49 


1 5 


1 21 


1 37 


1 53 


2 10 


2 26 


10 


2 42 


2 58 


3 15 


3 31 


3 47 


4 3 


4 19 


4 36 


4 52 


5 8 


20 


5 24 


5 41 


5 51 


6 13 


6 29 


6 46 


7 2 


7 18 


7 34 


7 51 


30 


8 7 


8 23 


8 39 


8 56 


9 12 


9 28 


9 44 


10 


10 17 


10 33 


40 


10 49 


11 5 


11 22 


11 38 


11 54 


12 10 


12 27 


12 43 


12 59 


13 15 


50 


13 31 


13 48 


14 4 


14 20 


14 36 


14 53 


15 9 


15 25 


15 41 


15 58 


60 


16 14 


16 30 


16 46 


17 2 


17 19 


17.35 


17 51 


18 7 


18 24 


18 40 


70 


18 56 


19 12 


19 28 


19 44 


20 1 


20 17 


20 34 


20 50 


21 6 


21 22 


80 


21 38 


21 55 


22 11 


22 27 


22 43 


23 


23 16 


23 32 


23 48 


24 4 


90 


24 20 


24 37 


24 53 


25 9 


25 26 


25 42 


25 58 


26 14 


26 31 


26 47 



100 cubic centimeters are equal to 27 fluidrachms 3 minims, or 3 fluid- 
ounces 3 fluidrachms and 3 minims. 



WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 



43 



TABLE FOR CONVERTING APOTHECARIES WEIGHTS AND MEASURES 
INTO GRAM WEIGHTS. 









Grams for Liquids. 


Troy Weight. 


Grams. 


Apothecaries' Meas- 












ures. 


Lighter than 


Spec. Grav. 


Heavierthan 








Water. 


of Water. 


Water. 


Grain -^ 


•004 


Minim 1 


•055 


•06 


•08 


1 

T2" 


•005 


2 


•10 


•12 


•15 


tV 


•006 


3 


•16 


•18 


•24 


l 


•008 


4 


•22 


•24 


•32 


i 


•010 


5 


•28 


•3 


•40 


1 


•016 


6 


•32 


•36 


•48 


l 
•3 


•02 


7 


•38 


•42 


•55 


I 


•03 


8 


•45 


•5 


•65 


f 


•05 


9 


•50 


•55 


•73 


1* 


•07 


10 


•55 


•6 


•80 


•2 


•13 


12 


•65 


•72 


•96 


3 


•20 


14 


•76 


•85 


1-12 


4 


•26 


15 


•80 


•9 


1-20 


5 


•32 


16 


•90 


1-0 


1-32 


6 


•39 


20 


1-12 


1-25 


1-60 


7 


•45 


25 


1-40 


1-55 


2-00 


8 


•52 


30 


1-70 


1-90 


2-50 


9 


•59 


35 


2-00 


2-20 


2-90 


10 @ss) 


•65 


40 


2-25 


2-50 


3-30 


12 


•78 


48 


2-70 


3-0 


4-00 


14 


•90 


50 


2-80 


3-12 


4-15 


15 


1-00 


60 (f #) 


3-40 


3-75 


5-00 


16 


1-05 


65 


3-60 


4-0 


5-30 


18 


1-18 


72 


4-05 


4-5 


6-00 


20 Qi) 


1-3 


80 


4-50 


5-0 


6-65 


24 


1-5 


90 (f^iss) 


5-10 


5-6 


7-50 


30 (3ss) 


1-95 


96 


5-40 


6-0 


8-00 


32 


2-1 


100 


5-60 


6-25 


8-30 


36 


2-2 


120 (f^ii) 


6-75 


7-5 


10-00 


40'Oii) 


2-6 


150 (f giiss) 


8-50 


9-5 


12-50 


45 


3-0 


160 


9-00 


10-0 


13-30 


50 Qiiss) 


3-2 


180 (fgiii) 


10-10 


11-25 


15-00 


60 ( 3 i) 


3-9 


210 (f^iiiss) 


1T80 


13-0 


17-50 


70 


4-55 


240 (f 3iv) 


13*50 . 


15-0 


20-00 


80 @iv) 


5-2 


f£V 


16-90 


18-75 


25-00 


90 (giss) 


5-9 


f ^VSS 


18-60" 


20-75 


27-50 


100 (gv) 


6-5 


fgvi 


20-25 


22-5 


3000 


110 (gvss) 


7-1 


fsjvii 


2360 


26-25 


35-00 


120 (gii) 


7-80 


f BfTiii (f §i) 


• 27-00 


30-0 


40-00 


150 (giiss) 


9-75 


fgix 


30-40 


33-75 


4500 


180 (ziii) 


11-65 


f£x 


33-75 


37-5 


50-00 


240 (gss) 


15-5 


f gxii (fgiss) 


40-50 


45-0 


60-00 


300 ( 3 v) 


19-4 


fgxiv 


47-25 


52-5 


70-00 


360 ( 3 vi) 


23-3 


fgii 


54-00 


60-0 


80-00 


420 (gvii) 


27-2 


fgiiss 


67-50 


75-0 


10.000 


480 (gi) 


31-1 


f|iii 


81-00 


90-0 


120-00 


Sii 


62-2 


f ^iiiss 


94-50 


105-0 


140-00 


^iv 


124-4 


fgiv 


108-00 


120-0 


160-00 



44 MATERIA MEDICA. 

A variety of circumstances, relating to the human organism, 
modify the effects of medicines. 

Age exerts a most important influence in this particular. 
Children are more susceptible than adults ; and in advanced 
age, also, smaller doses are required than in the prime of life. 
No general rule can be laid down for the adaptation of the 
doses of medicine to different ages, as the susceptibilities to the 
influence of different medicines are unequal at the same age. 
Thus, infants are peculiarly alive to impressions from opium, 
while in the cases of calomel and castor oil, they will bear much 
larger proportional doses. 

Dr. Young's scheme for graduating the doses of medicines 
to different ages answers very well in prescribing : For chil- 
dren under twelve years, the doses of most medicines must be 
diminished in the proportion of the age to the age increased by 

12 ; thus, at two years to 4? viz. : 2+T2 = %- At 21, the full 

dose may be given. 

, A good practical rule for graduating doses is that of Dr. 
Cowling : " The proportional dose for any age under adult life 
is represented by the number of the following birthday divided 
by twenty-four;" for one year, 2 \ — T \ ; for three years, 3 \ 
= I ; for eleven years, Jf = J. 

Sex, temperament and idiosyncrasy, all modify the effects of 
medicines. Women require somewhat smaller doses than men ; 
and during menstruation, pregnancy, and lactation, all active 
treatment, which is not imperatively demanded, should be 
avoided. To persons of a sanguine temperament, stimulants 
are to be administered with caution, while, in cases of the 
nervous temperament, the same care is to be observed in the 
employment of evacuants. Mercurials are called for where 
the bilious temperament exists, but, on the other hand, they 
are generally injurious where the lymphatic temperament is 
strongly marked. Idiosyncrasy renders many individuals pe- 
culiarly susceptible or insusceptible of the action of particular 
medicines, as mercury, opium, &c. 

In disease, an extraordinary tolerance of the action of many 



PARTS TO WHICH MEDICINES ARE APPLIED. 45 

medicines is established. In tetanus, immense quantities of 
opium are borne and required ; in typhoid fever, alcohol is 
freely administered without inducing narcotism ; in pneumonia, 
tartar emetic may be taken in large doses, without nausea. 

The time of administration modifies the action of medicines. 
Where a rapid effect is desired, they are to be given on an 
empty stomach ; on the other hand, irritant substances, as the 
arsenical or iodic preparations, are best borne when the stomach 
is full ; and the insoluble chalybeates, requiring the gastric 
fluid to dissolve them, should be taken with the food. 

The condition of the stomach is to be considered in pre- 
scribing medicines. In the black vomit of yellow fever, ab- 
sorption cannot take place by the stomach, and in the second 
stage of cholera, endosmosis by the bowels is impossible ; here, 
the hypodermic medication is invaluable. 

Habit diminishes the influence of many medicines, especially 
narcotics. 

The influence of race, climate, occupation, and the imagina- 
tion, upon the effects of medicines is often decided, and deserves 
attention in prescribing. 

PARTS TO WHICH MEDICINES ARE APPLIED. 

Medicines are applied to the skin, to mucous membranes, to 
serous membranes, to wounds, ulcers, cysts, and abscesses, and 
they are injected into the veins. 

1. To the Skin. — Medicines are applied to the skin for both 
a local and a general effect ; when brought in contact with the 
skin without friction it is termed the enepidermic method. As 
their influence on distant organs is the result of their absorp- 
tion, this function must be taken into consideration. Solutions 
of medicinal substances in water permeate slowly through the 
skin to enter the vessels. M. Hebert first drew attention to 
the fact that the oily secretion of the sebaceous follicles of the 
skin prevented the contact of aqueous liquids with the cuticle, 
but the cuticle itself is the main impediment to absorption. 
Waller (The Practitioner, London, 1869, vol. 3, p. 330) found 



46 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



that chloroformic solutions of the alkaloids placed in contact 
with the skin readily produced their effects upon the system. 
He ascertained that chloroform quickly osmoses through the 
skin, carrying with it dissolved substances, and that the ratio- 
nale of the process was not due to a solvent action on sebaceous 
matter. 

The application of medicines to the skin hy friction, the epi- 
dermic method, is occasionally resorted to, but its results are 
slow and uncertain; and when we wish to affect the system 
through the agency of the skin, the preferable method is to 
apply the medicine to the dermis denuded of the cuticle. 
This is termed the endermic method, and the cuticle is usually 
removed by means of a blister. The medicine is applied to the 
denuded dermis in the form of powder, or, if very irritating, 
it may be incorporated with gelatin, lard, or cerate. This 
method is useful in cases of irritability of the stomach, of in- 
ability to swallow, or where we desire to influence the system 
rapidly and by every possible avenue, or where it is of import- 
ance to apply the medicine near the seat of the disease. The 
dose is to be two or three times the amount which is adminis- 
tered by the stomach. 

Another method of applying medicines through the skin is 
by injection into the subcutaneous cellular tissue. This method 
is termed the hypodermic method, and is of recent introduction 
into therapeutics. Medicines are injected hypodermically for 
both a local and a general effect. A constitutional impression 
can be produced by this means more certainly, rapidly, and 
efficiently than by the introduction of medicines into the stom- 
ach. It is particularly adapted to the speedy relief of pain, 
to the treatment of diseases in which it is desirable to influence 
the system with the greatest possible rapidity and effect, and 
also to cases where the internal administration of medicines is 
interfered with. The substances proper for hypodermic injec- 
tion are those which are small in bulk and are of perfect solu- 
bility, such as the vegetable alkaloids. Substances of imperfect 
solubility should not be injected hypodermically, dangerous re- 
sults having followed therefrom, as from the use of the salts of 



PARTS TO WHICH MEDICINES ARE APPLIED. 47 

quinia. The dose, particularly in first injections, should be 
two thirds of the ordinary dose by the stomach, and for females 
about one half. 

The instrument used for injection is a small syringe armed 
with a small, sharp lancet, and, for the better regulation of the 
dose, it is desirable that the syringe should be graduated. It 
is important to avoid the puncture of a vein, lest a suddenly 
overwhelming effect be produced ; and, with this view, the 
syringe-needle should not be pushed too deeply into the tissues, 
and should be withdrawn a little, to allow a wound of a vein to 
close from elasticity. When a constitutional effect only is 
aimed at, non-sensitive, vascular parts should be selected, in 
order to facilitate absorption and give little pain, such as the 
waist ; another good spot for injection is at the insertion of the 
deltoid muscle in the arm, and, where repeated operations are 
practiced, it is well to vary the point of injection. Irritating 
injections are best tolerated in the back. To preserve hypo- 
dermic solutions from the destructive action of a low order of 
vegetation (algae), cherry laurel water or a weak borax solution 
may be used. 

2. To Mucous Membranes. — Medicines are applied to all the 
gastro-pulmonary and genito-urinary mucous surfaces. 

a. To the conjunctiva, they are applied for local effects only, 
and are termed collyria, or eye-washes. 

b. To the 7iasal or pituitary membrane, they are applied 
usually for local purposes ; sometimes, however, to irritate, and 
excite a discharge, when they are termed errhines ; sometimes, 
also, to produce sneezing, with a view to the expulsion of 
foreign bodies from the nasal cavities, when they are termed 
sternutatories. 

c. To the mucous membrane of the mouth and throat, medi- 
cines are applied almost exclusively for local purposes. When 
in solution, they are termed gargarismata or gargles. Powders 
are introduced by insufflation. 

d. To the Eustachian tubes, washes are applied in local 
affections. 

e. On the aerial or tracheobronchial membrane, medicines 



48 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



produce a very decided influence, both local and general. 
Liquid substances are introduced into the air passages by means 
of a sponge or syringe, in the treatment of chronic inflamma- 
tions of the larynx. Various substances are inhaled with ad- 
vantage in phthisis, chronic bronchitis and laryngitis, asthma, 
etc., while the most powerful effects are produced on the system 
by the absorption of ethereal vapours and gases through the 
pulmonary surface. 

Within the last few years, liquids have been introduced into 
the air passages, for the treatment of diseases of the respiratory 
organs, in the form of a, fine spray. This mode of application, 
termed the atomization of fluids, has proved very valuable, par- 
ticularly in the relief of throat affections. Various instruments 



Fig. 2. 




have been resorted to in the atomization of liquids. The hand- 
ball atomizer, which is usually employed, consists of two glass 
tubes, with capillary openings, placed at right angles to each 
other, the vertical tube being dipped in a bottle containing the 
fluid to be atomized, while at the other end it is close to and 
about opposite to the centre of a capillary opening in the hori- 
zontal tube. This connects with an elastic tube, intercepted by 
two elastic balls, one in the middle, the other, which is furnished 
with valves, at the end of the tube. The upper ball acts as a 
reservoir, into which a current of air is forced from the lower 



PARTS TO WHICH MEDICINES ARE APPLIED. 49 

ball by pressure with the hand. The air in the vertical glass 
tube being rarefied, the liquid rises to the capillary opening, 
and is there pulverized by the current of air from the horizon- 
tal tube. The atomizer is used also to produce local anesthesia, 
and as a deodorizer. 

As modified by Winterich, the spray can be readily generated 
within various parts of the body, as the back of the throat, 

Fiff. 3. 



U 

nostrils, meatus of the ear, etc. Instead of air steam has been 
substituted as the forcing power in the apparatus known as 
Siegle's. In this instrument as modified by Da Costa, inhala- 

Fig. 4. 




tion can be practiced without fatigue or assistance, and the 
warmth of the spray is also 'an advantage in many diseases of 
the respiratory organs. 

/. The g astro-intestinal mucows^ membrane, of all parts of 
the body, is most employed for the exhibition of medicines. 
The stomach, from its great vascularity, its solvent secretions, 
and the numerous relations which it has with almost every part 
of the body, is the chief recipient of medicinal agents. The 
rectum is, however, also frequently employed for various pur- 
poses, as to relieve disease of this or of neighbouring organs, to 
occasion revulsion, to produce alvine evacuations, to destroy 
ascarides, and when, for any reason, it is desirable to spare the 
stomach. 
4 



60 MATERIA MEDICA. 

It is usually recommended that the dose of medicines intro- 
duced into the rectum for constitutional effects should be two 
or three times greater than when taken into the stomach. In 
the case of active, soluble medicines, however, especially nar- 
cotics, it is most prudent to give the same amount by the rectum 
as by the mouth. 

Solid substances introduced into the rectum are termed sup- 
positories. Liquids introduced into the rectum are termed clys- 
ters, lavements, injections, and enemata. Soluble substances, 
when thus applied, are usually dissolved in water; insoluble 
substances are suspended in some mucilaginous vehicle. When 
the enema is to be retained, it sho*uld be from one to four flu- 
idrachms in quantity. When it is introduced to act upon the 
bowels, its bulk may be from twelve to sixteen fluidounces for 
an adult, six to eight fluidounces for a youth of twelve, three 
to four fluidounces for a child of one to five years, and a fluid- 
ounce for a newly-born infant. Various instruments are used 
for the administration of enemata, as the pipe and bladder, the 
ordinary syringe, the self-injecting apparatus, and the elastic 
bottle and tube. Gaseous matters have also been thrown into 
the rectum — tobacco-smoke, for example — to relieve obstruc- 
tion of the bowels. 

g. To the urino-genital and vagino-uterine membranes, appli- 
cations are made exclusively for local purposes. Within a few 
years intra-uterine medication has been a good deal employed 
in local affections of the uterus, but in the injection of fluids 
into the uterus there is danger of metro-peritonitis. 

3. To Serous Membranes. Irritating solutions are injected 
into the cavity of the tunica vaginalis testis, in hydrocele; into 
the hernial sac, in hernia ; and even into the pleural cavity, in 
pleurisy, for the purpose of producing adhesion of the sides of 
the sacs. 

4. To Ulcers, Wounds and Abscesses, medicines are applied 
chiefly for their local effects. The absorbing power of these 
surfaces is to be kept in mind in such applications. Cysts are 
sometimes cured by injections, as of iodine into cysts of the 
thyroid gland. 



PARTS TO WHICH MEDICINES ARE APPLIED. 51 

5. The injection of medicines into the Veins has been occa- 
sionally practiced. The operation is, however, objectionable, 
from the danger of introducing air into the circulation ; and it 
is seldom resorted to, except in the case of transfusion of blood 
after uterine or other hemorrhage, or exhausting disease. 

Transfusion will often be found an efficient remedy, although 
there is always risk of coagulation of the blood in the veins. 
The more direct and immediate the transfusion, the safer the 
operation, as by Aveling's apparatus, which consists of an 
India-rubber bulb, oblong in shape, and of sufficient size to 
contain two fluidrachms ; India-rubber tubes six or seven 

Fig. 5. 




inches in length attached to the extremities of the bulb ; and 
stop-cocks attached to the outer extremities of the tubes. 
Also, two silver tubes : one, bevel-pointed, called the afferent 
tube (seen at A), which is to be inserted into the vein in the 
arm of the patient ; the other round-pointed, called the efferent 
tube (seen at B), which is to be inserted into the vein in the 
arm of the donor, also a pair of fine forceps and a scalpel.* 

* The mode of operation is as follows : 

First, place the apparatus in a basin of tepid water, and, while com- 
pletely under the water, for the purpose of filling it and insuring its 
cleanliness, compress and expand the bulb until the air contained within 
the bulb and rubber tubing is completely expelled. When the air has been 
completely expelled, and while the apparatus is yet remaining beneath the 
surface of the water, turn the stop-cocks at both extremities of the rubber 
tubing in such a manner as to entirely preclude the possibility of air 
gaining access to its cavity. The patient having been brought to the side 



52 MATERIA MEDICA. 

THE CLASSIFICATION OF MEDICINES. 

In treating the articles of the Materia Medica some writers 
have classified them according to their natural properties, 
others, according to their action on the human system. To 
the student of medicine a classification based upon the sensible 
qualities or natural affinities of medicines can be of little value, 

of the bed and the arm made bare, a fold of skin over a vein at the bend 
of the arm is to be raised, transfixed, and divided. The vein now brought 
into view is to be seized with the fine forceps, slightly raised, and a small 
opening made into it for the reception of the bevel-pointed silver or 
afferent tube. This tube, which has been lying in the basin of tepid water, 
should carefully be kept filled with water when it is removed, by placing 
the thumb or finger over its larger opening. 

The tube, now being filled with water, has its bevel-pointed extremity 
at once inserted into the opening already made in the vein, and is then 
entrusted to the care of an assistant (A), who carefully compresses the 
edges of the wound around the tube, and at the same time holds his thumb 
or finger over its larger opening to prevent the escape of the water. 

While the operator is performing this part of the operation, an assistant 
should prepare the arm of the blood-donor in the same manner as for 
venesection. An opening is then made into the vein, and the round- 
pointed or efferent tube at once inserted with its point towards the fingers. 
The donor should then be seated in a chair at the bedside of the patient. 
It is better not to secure the tubes in the veins by ligatures. B represents 
the hand of an assistant holding the efferent tube carefully compressed 
within the lips of the wound, in the same manner as with the afferent 
tube at A. 

The India-rubber portion of the apparatus, thoroughly cleansed, air 
perfectly expelled and completely filled with water, is now to be carefully 
and closely adjusted to the two tubes in the veins. When adjusted the 
stop-cocks are turned straight, and transfusion is commenced by first 
compressing the India-rubber tube on the efferent side (donor's), and then 
squeezing the bulb, which forces two drachms of water into the afferent 
vein. Next, while the bulb is compressed, shift the hand and compress 
the India-rubber tube upon the afferent (patient's) side. Then allow the 
bulb to expand slowly, and blood will be drawn into it from the donor's 
vein. When the tubing and bulbs are filled bring the hand back, compress 
the tube, follow this by compression of the bulb, and two drachms of blood 
will b'e thrown into the afferent vein. In this manner the process can be 
repeated any number of times desired, rapidly or slowly, and the exact 
amount of blood transfused can be known by counting the number of times 
the bulb has been emptied, one being subtracted, which accounts for water 
first used. 



CLASSIFICATION OF MEDICINES. 53 

since it associates articles of the most opposite remedial prop- 
erties. A classification of medicines founded on a similarity 
of action on the animal economy is more desirable and useful, 
and various arrangements of the Materia Medica have been 
attempted on this basis. They are all, to some extent, neces- 
sarily imperfect, owing partly to the diversified effects of med- 
icines and partly to our ignorance of the real nature of many 
of the modifications which they produce upon the tissues. 
Still, the advantages of some arrangement of this kind are so 
numerous that it cannot well be dispensed with. 

The following classification will be found to include the more 
ordinary and generally received divisions of the Materia 
Medica, and to present the articles in convenient groups for 
therapeutic application. 

Medicines may be divided into — 

f Narcotics, 
| Anaesthetics, 
j Antispasmodics, 

I. Those which have a special action on the nervous J Tonics, 

system, or Neurotics (from vevpoy, a nerve). j Astringents, 

Stimulants, 
Sedatives, 
[ Spinants. 
f Emetics, 
j Cathartics, 

II. Those which have a special action on the secre- J Diaphoretics, 

tions, or Eccritics (from eKKpio-is, secretion). j Diuretics, 

Blennorrheas, 
[ Emmenagogues. 

III. Those which modify the blood, or Hxmatics (from f Ha3matinics, 

— thebio ° d > i inSr 

[ Antiseptics, 
j Irritants, 

IV. Those which act topically. \ Demulcents, 

Colouring Agents, 
Anthelmintics. 



54 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

CLASS L— NEUROTICS. 

ORDER I. — NARCOTICS. 

Narcotics (from vaKpsu, to stupefy) are medicines which 
impair or destroy nervous action. The primary effect of nar- 
cotics is, however, of a stimulant character, and their thera- 
peutic efficacy is in a great degree due to this action. They 
are often administered, too, for a true narcotic or sedative 
influence on the motor, sensor, and intellectual functions. In 
diseased conditions, a marked tolerance of this class of med- 
icines is established, and they can be exhibited in large doses 
without inducing narcosis. They are employed, chiefly, to 
remove muscular spasm, relieve pain, allay cerebral or spinal 
irritability, and procure sleep. 

When employed to relieve pain, they are termed anodynes ; 
when employed to procure sleep, hypnotics or soporifics. 

When this class of medicines is resorted to for any length of 
time, with a view to a narcotic effect, their influence upon the 
system is much diminished, and constantly increased amounts 
are called for to maintain the same effect. 

OPIUM. 

Opium (from onog, juice) is the concrete juice of the un- 
ripe capsules of Papaver somniferum (Nat. Ord. Papaveracese). 
The opium-poppy is a native of Persia, but is cultivated in 
various parts of Asia, in Europe, and in the United States. 
It is an annual plant, w r ith a round, leafy stem, from two to 
four feet or more in height, and large four-petaled flowers. 
There are two prominent varieties of this species : the black 
poppy, with violet-coloured or red flowers, brown or blackish 
seeds, and globular capsules ; and the white poppy, with white 
flowers and seeds, and ovate capsules ; but these varieties run 
into each other under cultivation. 

The nearly ripe capsules (papaver) are from an inch and 
a half to two inches or more in diameter, and contain a good 
deal of opium. They are sometimes given to children in the 



OPIUM. 65 

form of syrup, and are applied externally as an anodyne emol- 
lient, in the form of decoction. The seeds are destitute of nar- 
cotic properties, and are used in Europe as an article of diet, 
and for the manufacture of an oil. 

Opium is obtained from incisions in the half-ripe capsules. 
The juice, which exudes from the incisions, is allowed to evap- 
orate spontaneously, and is scraped off after drying, generally 
with more or less of the epidermis, and is sometimes sent into 
the market unmixed, as a choice variety. The opium of com- 
merce is, however, commonly made by adding the dried juice, 
obtained by incision, to an extract prepared by expression, or 
even from a decoction of the leaves, the whole being kneaded 
together, formed into cakes, and wrapped in fresh poppy-leaves. 

The commerce of the United States is supplied with opium 
almost exclusively from Asiatic Turkey. This is known in the 
market as Smyrna or Turkey opium, and comes in irregularly 
rounded or flattened cakes, covered with the capsules of a 
species of Rumex. 

A large amount of opium is produced in British India, for 
consumption in India and China, but it is not found in our 
markets. The Persian opium is another variety, but it does not 
reach the United States. Much opium was formerly obtained 
from Upper Egypt, in the neighbourhood of Thebes, but its 
production was for a long time abandoned, though within the 
last forty years again introduced. Successful attempts have 
been made with the cultivation of the poppy in England and 
other parts of Europe, which have resulted in the production 
of opium. During the civil war in the United States, a good 
deal of opium was made in the southern States, from poppies 
of almost every variety ; samples of this opium have yielded 
about the same amount of morphia as that obtained from Tur- 
key opium, and even in New England very good opium has 
lately been produced. The great source of our supply of opium 
has, however, long been, and still is, the Turkish dominions. 

The best opium should have a fine chestnut colour, an aro- 
matic, strong, peculiar smell and a dense consistence — becom- 
ing, however, harder and darker by being kept. It should be 



56 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

moderately ductile, break with a deeply-notched fracture, and, 
when drawn across white paper, should leave an interrupted 
stain. The taste is very bitter and somewhat acrid, and when 
chewed it excites irritation in the mouth and throat. It is 
inflammable, and imparts its virtues to water, alcohol and 
diluted acids, but not to ether. 

Chemical Constituents. — Opium contains a great variety of 
chemical constituents, the most important of which is the alka- 
loid Morphina (morphia). Other principles found in opium 
are the alkaloids, narcotina, codeia, narceia, paramorphia, pap- 
averina, opiania, cryptopia ; meconin, meconic and thebolactic 
acids, porphyroxin, gum, extractive, resin, oil, etc., but no tan- 
nin or starch, and, in very minute amounts, alkaloids, termed 
meconidia, laudamia, codamia, pseudomorphia, apomorphia (a 
derivative of morphia by HC1), lanthopia, rhoeadinia, rhcea- 
genia, laudanosia, protopia and hydrocotarnia. Morphia is the 
principle upon which the narcotic effects of opium essentially 
depend, and, with its salts, is officinal in all the pharmacopoeias. 

Morphia exists in opium chiefly in combination with me- 
conic acid. The morphia meconate is separated from the other 
constituents of the drug by successive macerations with water. 
Alcohol and water of ammonia are then added to the aqueous 
feolution, by which the salt is decomposed, the ammonia pre- 
cipitating the morphia and the alcohol seizing the colouring 
matter as soon as it is separated from the alkali. The crystals 
of morphia, which are formed, are afterwards boiled in alcohol, 
and the solution is filtered through animal charcoal. Good 
samples of opium, when dried, should yield not less than 12 
nor more than 16 per cent, of morphia. 

Morphia (C 17 H 19 N0 3 .H 2 0) occurs in colourless, rhombic, 
prismatic crystals, without smell, but of very bitter taste. It 
is very slightly soluble in water and ether, nearly insoluble in 
chloroform, partially soluble in cold and more soluble in boil- 
ing alcohol. Acetic ether (ethyl acetate) is the best solvent 
for it. From the insolubility of the alkaloid the salts of mor- 
phia are preferred for medicinal use ; they are freely soluble 
in water and diluted alcohol, but are insoluble in ether and 



opium. 57 

chloroform. Tests: 1. Concentrated nitric acid strikes with 
morphia and its salts a rich orange-red colour, slowly fading 
to yellow. 2. Iron chloride or tersulphate colours them deep 
hlue. 3. Iodic acid is deoxidized by morphia, and if a solu- 
tion of starch is added with heat, dark-blue starch-iodine 
is produced ; this is a very delicate test. 4. Sulphomolybdic 
acid (made by dissolving, with a gentle heat, 5 or 6 grains of 
ammonium molybdate in 2 drachms of strong sulphuric acid), 
when rubbed with morphia, produces an intense purplish or 
crimson colour, changing to green, and finally to sapphire blue. 

5. Iodic acid in solution, mixed with carbon sulphide, pro- 
duces, when added to morphia, a pink or red colour, owing to 
the liberation of the iodine and its solution by the sulphide. 

6. Alkaline solutions of chlorine give a deep red colour with 
morphia. Other tests are recommended, but these are the best. 

Narcotina (C 22 H 23 N0 7 ) exists in opium chiefly in the free 
state, and, being insoluble in water, is left behind when the 
drug is macerated in this menstruum. It occurs in white, 
tasteless, inodorous, needle-like crystals, which are soluble in 
ether, alcohol, and still more so in chloroform. At one time 
it was thought to possess a portion of the narcotic properties 
of opium, but it is now admitted to be inert in this respect. Its 
salts, which are bitter, have been used in India as stomachics, 
and as febrifuge tonics in the treatment of intermittent fever. 

Codeia (C 18 H 21 N0 3 ) exists in opium combined like morphia 
with meconic acid, and is extracted in the process for ob- 
taining the latter alkaloid, from which it may be separated by 
an alkaline solution, which dissolves the morphia and leaves 
the codeia. It occurs in colourless octohedral crystals, of a 
bitter taste, soluble in water, alcohol, ether and chloroform. 
It has been found to possess uncertain narcotic powers, one 
grain having failed to be hypnotic (Wood, H. C), while four 
grains have caused insomnia and slight delirium (British Med. 
Jour., 1874, 1, 478) ; again, five grains have produced no 
effect (Mitchell). Codeia has been used in gastrodynia and 
dyspepsia, in the dose of half a grain or more. It is, however, 
too expensive an article for general use. 



58 MATERIA MEBICA — NARCOTICS. 

Narceia (C 23 H 29 N0 9 ) is obtained from the mother liquid left 
after crystallizing out the salts of morphia. Bernard affirms 
that it is the most certain hypnotic of all the opium alkaloids. 
Da Costa's experience shows that it has little effect on skin or 
pupil, and that its hypnotic action is uncertain or inert. Another 
observer states that to get its hypnotic effects it must be given 
in doses twice as large as morphia (Eulenberg). Its exact ac- 
tion is so far in doubt. 

Paramorphia, known also as Thebaia (C 19 II 2 jN0 3 ), has been 
found to be a tetanizing toxic agent, analogous in its effects to 
strychnia ; two grains, given hypodermically, have killed a dog. 

Papaverina (C 21 H 21 N0 4 ) is said to produce some soporific 
action, with a sedative influence on the pulse ; its strength is 
from one-eighth to one-fourth of that of morphia. 

Cryptopia (C 21 H 23 N0 5 ) is thought to produce a hypnotic in- 
fluence analogous to that of morphia, though a much feebler 
agent. The statements in regard to the last three alkaloids 
are conflicting. 

Apormorphia (C 17 H 17 N0 2 ), a recently-discovered alkaloidal 
derivative of morphia, soluble in water, possesses marked spe- 
cific emetic properties, acting very promptly and with much 
freedom from nausea ; y 1 - of a grain injected hypodermically, 
or \ of a grain taken by the stomach, will produce emesis in 
from 10 to 20 minutes, which is apt to recur once or twice at 
intervals of a quarter of an hour, but care should be exercised 
in its use. It is a valuable emetic when prompt evacuation of 
the stomach is required, as in narcotic poisoning, and has been 
used as an expectorant. 

Meconic acid is inert, but is interesting as affording the most 
delicate test for opium ; iron chloride or tersulphate strikes with 
even very diluted solutions of opium a blood red iron meconate, 
which is not dissolved by diluted acids or corrosive sublimate. 

Incompatible^. — Alkalies, and astringent infusions containing 
tannic acid, are incompatible with opium ; the former precipi- 
tate morphia from its soluble combination, while the latter form 
with it an insoluble compound. Many of the mineral salts are 
also decomposed by opium, as lead acetate (lead meconate and 



opium. 59 

morphia acetate being formed when these articles are prescribed 
together). 

Physiological Effects. — Opium exerts a marked therapeutic 
action in the relief of pain, spasm, wakefulness, nervous irrita- 
bility, and certain forms of morbid discharge, especially from 
the alimentary canal, by a primary stimulant action, antecedent 
to any narcotic influence. In such conditions a tolerance of 
its effects is established, and very large amounts may be taken 
without inducing narcosis. Opium applied locally deadens the 
sensibility of the nerves of a part without influencing the brain 
(Trousseau et Pidoux, vol. ii.). In detail its physiological action 
in moderate doses is as follows — Nervous system : the cerebral 
functions are stimulated, accompanied by an agreeable exhila- 
ration of the intellectual faculties, followed by drowsiness, con- 
sciousness being .finally lost in sleep, the latter sometimes dis- 
turbed by dreams. On awakening there are commonly symp- 
toms of depression, as headache and nausea, also constipation. 
The reflex function of the spinal cord is diminished, and in 
lethal doses destroyed, death taking place from paralysis of the 
respiratory centre. Pupil : in full doses opium contracts the 
pupil ; but since the local application of morphia does not pos- 
sess this power, it follows that its action must be a constitutional 
one, being probably due to stimulation of the oculo-motor centres. 
Circulation : the heart's action becomes slower and fuller, the 
slowing being due to a depressing influence on the cardiac motor 
ganglia, at the same time the arterial tension is raised. Respi- 
ration : this act tends to become slower. Secretions : occasion- 
ally nausea;" constipation results from lessening of the intestinal 
secretions and arrest of peristaltic action; kidneys: urine slightly 
diminished ; salivary glands : the secretion from these glands is 
diminished ; in one word, all the secretions are lessened except 
that of the skin, which is heightened. According to Phillips 
the drug is probably eliminated in this way, but much, doubt- 
lessly, is carried off by the kidneys. In some persons an itching 
and miliary eruption of the skin occurs. Most of the opium 
alkaloids increase the excretion of urea. 

When a poisonous dose is taken, the stage of excitement is 



60 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

wanting; giddiness and stupour' rapidly come on, with diminution 
in the frequency, though not in the fullness, of the pulse ; and 
these symptoms are soon followed by an irresistible tendency 
to sleep, and finally by coma. The breathing is heavy and 
stertorous, the pulse slow and oppressed, and the pupils are 
contracted. If relief is not afforded, the pulse sinks, the mus- 
cular system becomes relaxed, and death ensues, preceded 
sometimes in children by violent convulsions. In adults gr. \-^ 
of morphia, and gr. iv. of opium, have caused death. 

In cases of poisoning from opium or its preparations, the 
stomach should be immediately evacuated by the stomach 
pump, if possible, or by emetics. Owing to the torpor of the 
stomach, emetics are to be given in double the ordinary doses, 
and the direct emetics are to be preferred, as zinc sulphate 
(20 to 30 grains) or copper sulphate (5 to 10 grains). A 
large tablespoonful of mustard flour, or of powdered alum, 
answers very well as an emetic. Every means should be taken 
to arouse the patient from his lethargy ; he should be kept 
awake, and made to walk as long as possible ; afterwards cold 
affusions, counter-irritation to the nape of the neck and ex- 
tremities, flagellation to the palms of the hands and soles of 
the feet, and, best of all when the coma is profound, the electro- 
magnetic battery should be resorted to. Artificial inflation of 
the lungs is also to be practiced. The use of strong coffee has 
proved efficacious ; and stimuli may be given to support the 
system. Of late years it has been found that belladonna exer- 
cises a powerful influence as a physiological antidote against 
narcotism from opium, these drugs acting in an opposite man- 
ner on respiration, brain, skin, pupil and circulation ; and the 
administration of this substance by the stomach, or, still bet- 
ter, the hypodermic injection of a solution of atropia, is one of 
the most available remedies that can be employed in poisoning 
from opium. The poisonous action of opium appears to be 
entirely directed to the nervous system, no local lesions being 
found after death. 

Opium is largely used as an habitual narcotic in Oriental 
countries, and to some extent in Europe and the United States. 



OPIUM. 61 

The effects of indulgence in this species of intoxication are of 
the most destructive character upon both the physical and 
mental faculties. 

Medicinal Uses. — Of all the articles of the Materia Medica 
opium enjoys the widest range of therapeutic application. 
From its properties of assuaging pain and inducing sleep it is 
useful in almost all diseases; and it is positively contraindicated 
only where there is a tendency to apoplexy or coma, or where 
there exists an idiosyncrasy with respect to its effects. As an 
anodyne in painful and malignant ulcers, sprains, severe in- 
juries, and in resisting surgical shock, we have no substitute for 
opium ; and, as an hypnotic in mania-a-potu, and in the wake- 
fulness and cerebral irritability of fever, mania, etc., it is 
equally invaluable. From its power of relaxing muscular 
spasm it is our most efficient resource in tetanus, colic, and 
spasm of the stomach, bowels, biliary ducts, ureters, neck of 
the bladder, etc. In dysentery and cholera it forms the basis 
of every variety of treatment, partly for its diaphoretic effects, 
but principally for its action in arresting both the secretions 
and peristaltic motion of the bowels. In dysentery laudanum 
may be given per rectum in a starch decoction. In some cases 
of dysentery opium does harm by checking peristalsis, and so 
assisting to retain the dejections, thus allowing them to irritate 
and ferment (Med. and Surg. Hist, of the Rebellion, chap, on 
Dysentery). For the relief of the cough of pulmonary affec- 
tions opium has no equal in Materia Medica. In cerebro- 
spinal meningitis and in puerperal fever it has been found more 
successful than any other remedy. In gastric irritability, to 
check vomiting, in colica pictonum, peritonitis, rheumatism, 
gout, neuralgia, typhus, gangrene, convulsive diseases, diabetes, 
diarrhoea, etc., is is also constantly employed. Dr. Allbutt 
recommends the hypodermic use of morphia to relieve the 
dyspnoea of heart disease, and the editor can confirm his 
statement. In sunstroke good results have been obtained from 
morphia injections (Hutchinson). Morphia, exhibited hypo- 
dermically, will generally relieve a paroxysm of asthma, al- 
though without curative power. In the collapse of cholera 



62 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

great benefit has been derived from the hypodermic use of 
morphia (Dr. J. T. Gallagher) ; and Loomis has called atten- 
tion to its similar exhibition in ursemic convulsions. An ap- 
proaching paroxysm of malarial fever, pernicious or intermit- 
tent, may be prevented by the timely injection of morphia. 

Administration. — The ordinary dose of opium as an anodyne 
and hypnotic is one grain. Much larger doses are, however, called 
for in many diseases ; and when it is administered for a length of 
time, as a narcotic, the dose must be gradually increased. To 
infants and very old persons it is to be given with great caution. 

Opium is administered in the form of powder or pills. It is 
easily powdered when thoroughly dried, and the pills, as well 
as all the other preparations of opium, should always be made 
from the powder. The powder is sometimes used endermically, 
and is sprinkled on irritable ulcers. In the form of suppos- 
itories it is also applied to the rectum. 

The following are the officinal preparations of opium : 

Opii Pulvis (Opium Powder). Used in making most of 
the opium preparations. It should contain not less than 12 nor 
more than 16 per cent, of morphine, instead of 10 per cent., 
as directed by the U. S. P., 1870. This, as Dr. Squibb has 
pointed out, materially increases the strength of the prepara- 
tions made from it, and causes a great variation in their strength, 
depending on the percentage of morphine in the powdered 
opium ; thus laudanum Sj may contain from gr. 5*44 to gr. 
7*25 of morphine. 

Opium Denarcotisatum (Denarcotised Opium). Opium 
freed from narcotina, etc., by means of ether, and containing 
14 per cent, of morphine. Dose, gr. ss-ij. 

Pilulje Opii (Pills of Opium). Each pill contains a grain 
of opium. They are kept in the shops, as hard old opium 
pills are sometimes preferred in cases of irritable stomach. 

Extractum Opii (Extract of Opium). Made by evaporat- 
ing the aqueous solution. Dose, gr. J. 

Trochisci Glycyrrhiz^e et Opii (Troches of Liquorice and 
Opium). Much used in Philadelphia under the name of Wis- 



opium. 03 

tars cough lozenges. Each troche contains one-twentieth of a 
grain of extract of opium. 

Emplastrum Opii (Opium Plaster). Made by mixing extr. 
opium with Burgundy pitch and lead plaster. 

Pulvis Ipecacuanha et Opii (Powder of Ipecac and 
Opium). This powder, well known under the name of Dover 's 
Powder, is made by rubbing up sixty grains of opium and 
ipecacuanha each, with a troyounce of sugar of milk, the 
latter being employed to promote the minute division and 
thorough intermingling of the opium and ipecac. Dover's 
Powder is a most valuable anodyne diaphoretic, extensively 
prescribed in diarrhoea, dysentery, rheumatism, bronchitis, 
pneumonia, etc. Dose, gr. x, containing gr. j of opium and 
ipecacuanha each. 

Tinctura Opii (Tincture of Opium). Laudanum. Con- 
tains 10 per cent, of powdered opium. It should be recollected 
that the opium from which these preparations are made con- 
tains from 2 to 6 per cent, more morphine than that formerly 
employed. This is the most commonly employed of all the 
officinal preparations of opium. When long kept, particularly 
if exposed to the air, it becomes thick from evaporation of the 
alcohol, and its strength is much increased. Dose, TT|xij, or 
about 25 drops, equivalent to a grain of opium. There are 
120 drops in f3j. Laudanum is much used in the form of 
enema. 

Tinctura Ipecacuanha et Opii (Tincture of Ipecac and 
Opium) contains deodorized tincture of opium (100 parts, 
evaporated) mixed with fluid extract of ipecac (10 parts) and 
diluted alcohol (enough to make 100 parts). Dose, Tt[x-xx. 

Tinctura Opii Camphorata (Camphorated Tincture of 
Opium). Paregoric Elixir. Prepared by macerating opium 
(5j) in diluted alcohol (Oij), with benzoic acid (5j), oil of anise 
(gr. lx), glycerin (gr. 600), and camphor (5j). Dose, f§ss, or 
a tablespoonful, containing rather less than a grain of opium. 
A favourite preparation for children. 5 to 20 drops may be 
given to an infant. 



64 MATERIA MEDICA— NARCOTICS. 

Tinctura Opii Deodorata (Deodorized Tincture of Opium) 
contains the same proportion of opium as laudanum. In pre- 
paring it, the narcotina as well as the odorous and many other 
injurious ingredients of opium are got rid of. A valuable 
preparation. Dose, the same as that of laudanum. 

Acetum Opii ( Vinegar of Opium). Black Drop. Black 
drop has the same strength of laudanum, and is to be given in 
the same dose. 

Vinum Opii (Wine of Opium). Sydenham s Laudanum. 
Prepared by macerating opium in stronger white wine, with 
cinnamon and cloves, and contains the same proportion of 
opium as laudanum. Dose, TT|xij, or about 25 drops. 

Morphia Sulphas (Morphia Sulphate), Morphine Acetas 
(Morphia Acetate), Morphle Hydrochloras (Morphia Hy- 
drochlorate), are the officinal salts of morphia, made by sat- 
urating the alkaloid with sulphuric, acetic, and muriatic acids. 
The sulphate and muriate occur in the form of snow-white 
feathery crystals, the acetate (which is not very stable) as a 
white powder. They have a bitter taste; are all freely soluble 
in water and alcohol, and produce analogous medicinal effects, 
the sulphate being, however, most soluble and most employed 
in this country. The salts of morphia possess the anodyne and 
hypnotic, but not the diaphoretic, properties of opium, and are 
considered less apt to produce headache, nausea, or consti- 
pation. They are peculiarly adapted to the hypodermic and 
endermic methods of application. Dose, one-sixth to one- 
fourth of a grain. This quantity is equal to opium 1 grain. 
Magendie's solution, used hypodermically, contains sixteen 
grains to f§i. 

Troches of Morphia and Ipecacuanha (Trochisci Morphise 
et Ipecacuanha) ; each troche contains ^ of a grain of mor- 
phia sulphate. 

Pulvis Morphia Compositus (Compound Powder of M07*- 
phine) (Tully's Powder). Contains morphine sulphate (1 part), 
mixed with camphor, liquorice, and calcium carbonate (of each 
20 parts). 



CHLORAL. 65 

CHLORAL. 

This interesting compound, although discovered by Liebig in 
1832, has attracted attention as a therapeutic agent only since 
the statements of Liebrich, a physician of Prussia, published 
in May, 1869. It is prepared by passing dried chlorine gas 
through pure anhydrous alcohol, afterwards gently heating, 
when the liquid separates into two layers, the lower of which 
is chloral ; this is agitated with sulphuric acid, and purified by 
distillation, first over sulphuric acid and then over quicklime; 
the reaction, upon which the formation of chloral depends, in 
this process, is complicated, chloral and hydrochloric acids 
being the chief products. Anhydrous chloral (C 2 HC1 3 0) is a 
thin, limpid, oily, colourless liquid, greasy to the touch, with a 
fatty taste, and a strong pungent smell, producing lachryma- 
tion. Chemically, it is classed with the halogen aldehydes. 
It has a sp. gr. of 1*502, a boiling point of 203° F., and mixes 
in all proportions with water, alcohol, ether, and chloroform. 
Mixed with one-eighth its weight of distilled water, it combines 
to form a so-called hydrate (C 2 HC1 3 0,H 2 0), for it contains an 
entire molecule of water, which crystallizes in a mass of snow- 
white needles, soluble in their own weight of water; and, as 
pure chloral readily undergoes decomposition, the more stable 
hydrate is the form which is employed for medicinal use. It 
is incompatible with the alkalies, which decompose it into 
formic acid and chloroform. 

Chloral combines also with alcohol, forming a compound 
termed Chloral AlcaJwlate, which resembles the hydrate, but 
is distinguishable by its insolubility in water and its solubility 
in cold chloroform. 

Effects and Uses. — Chloral has decided antiseptic properties. 
Nervous system : in doses of 20 grains, chloral is a most reliable 
hypnotic. The sleep which it induces is usually quiet, natural 
and refreshing. Generally, no unpleasant effects follow its em- 
ployment, though occasionally headache and slight nausea super- 
vene. According to Hammond, chloral causes cerebral anaemia, 
and that the brain is in this condition when chloral sleep sets in. 
5 



66 MATERIA MED1CA — NARCOTICS. 

In medicinal doses, it is not a pain-relieving agent, in the 
way that opium is. In hypnotic doses, it slightly contracts 
the pupil. It has no special action on the secretions, but 
is probably eliminated by the kidneys. When larger amounts 
are given, the sleep is deeper, and may pass into coma ; 
the respiration is slower ; the pulse is reduced in fullness 
and frequency, the arterial tension being lowered ; the tem- 
perature is reduced ; the muscular system is relaxed ; and 
both sensibility and reflex action are abolished, the latter being 
brought about by a direct action on the spinal cord, since 
chloral does not affect the motor nerves or muscular contrac- 
tility. Large amounts may be taken without fatal results, as 
460 grains have been given without unpleasant effects, though 
20 grains, in three cases, have proved poisonous ; the symp- 
toms of poisoning are diminished frequency of the respiration 
and circulation, redness of the conjunctiva, contraction of the 
pupils, lividity of the lips, and falling of the jaw, with occa- 
sionally eruptions of the skin. Death takes place probably 
from sudden failure of the heart's action, which stops in dias- 
tole. The treatment of chloral-poisoning is much the same as 
that pursued in opium-poisoning ; artificial respiration is, how- 
ever, useless, and the heart's action is best restored by the ac- 
tion of strychnia on the cardiac ganglia. It is asserted that 
chloral is decomposed in the blood by the liberation of chloro- 
form ; but this is scarcely probable, and its effects are certainly 
not identical with those of chloroform. 

Chloral is a most valuable hypnotic remedy in all the forms 
of insomnia, in hysterical excitement, in acute mania, and in 
delirium tremens. As an antispasmodic, larger doses are re- 
quired, but it has been used with advantage in infantile con- 
vulsions, and even in puerperal and uremic convulsions, both 
by the mouth and hypodermically, and it is especially recom- 
mended in the relief of rigid os during labour. In sea-sickness 
it is highly recommended. In tetanus, much success has been 
obtained with chloral, in ten-grain doses every two hours. In 
whooping-cough, chorea, etc., it has also been employed with 
advantage, and as an antidote for strychnia. As an anodyne 



POTASSIUM BROMIDE. 67 

it is available, but only in narcotic amounts. The ordinary 
dose of chloral is 20 grains, -which may be safely repeated 
every hour or two, till three doses have been taken or sleep 
occurs. An equal weight of chloral hydrate added to powdered 
camphor makes a valuable local anaesthetic liquid. 

Chloral is administered only in aqueous solution, and the 
addition of mucilage or syrup, particularly of the syrup of 
orange-peel, will disguise its unpleasant taste. It is not well 
adapted to the hypodermic method, as painful phlegmons some- 
times follow its repeated use. Locally, in dilution (gr. x to 
foi of water), or as an ointment (5ss to §i), it is a good stimu- 
lant and deodorizing application to foul and fetid indolent ul- 
cers ; as an injection in gonorrhoea (gr. xx to f§i of water), it 
answers well; and injected into subjects for the dissecting-room, 
and in the preservation of anatomical preparations, it has been 
also found useful (gr. xl to f.5i of water). 

Croton-Chloral Hydrate (C 4 H 5 C1 3 0,H 2 0) is made by the 
action of chlorine upon ethylic aldehyde, and, when pure, occurs 
in beautiful white, silvery crystals, with a sweetish melon flavour, 
only slightly soluble in water. Its action is similar to chloral, 
though thought to be feebler ; in addition it causes anaesthesia 
of the head. It is highly recommended as an anodyne in neu- 
ralgia, and also in chronic cough, in doses of from fifteen to 
twenty grains, dissolved in glycerin and syrup. 

POTASSII BROMIDUM — POTASSIUM BROMIDE. 

Potassium bromide (KBr) is prepared by adding a solution 
of pure potassium carbonate to a solution of ferrous bromide. 
The iron is precipitated, and the potassium bromide remains in 
solution, from which it is obtained by evaporation. It occurs 
as a permanent, colourless, anhydrous, crystalline salt, of a 
pungent, saline taste, very soluble in water, and slightly so in 
alcohol. When mixed with starch, a yellow colour is developed 
on the addition of chlorine. A bluish tint shows the presence 
of an iodide. 

Physiological Effects. — Local action : when applied locally 
to the pharyngeal mucous membrane, it is said to lessen the 



68 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

reflex irritability of the part. Nervous system : when applied 
locally to the motor nerves and spinal centres of the frog, 
potassium bromide destroys their functions. This action, how- 
ever, is probably due to the potassium which it contains (Ringer), 
and is shared by other potassium salts. When administered 
internally (in animals), the irritability of the brain is decreased, 
owing in great part to the anaemia, caused by the action of the 
drug upon the vasa-motor nerves which govern the calibre of 
the vessels. Reflex irritability is diminished, partly on account 
of the paralyzing influence exerted on the reflex functions of 
the cord, and in part from paralysis of the end-organs of the 
peripheral nerves ; on the latter account, also, cutaneous sen- 
sibility is lessened. It possesses a sedative action on the 
sympathetic system, giving rise to diminished cardiac action, 
decrease in the blood-supply to various organs, and slight 
reduction in the temperature of the body. Circulation : top- 
ically applied to the heart (and voluntary muscles), it destroys 
their functions, as in the case of the topical application to the 
nervous centres, and probably for the same reason. In very 
large doses, it lessens the frequency and force of the cardiac 
contractions, shortening the systole, prolonging the diastole, 
and, finally, paralyzing the heart in diastole. The tension of 
the arterial system is lowered. Respiration : it slows respira- 
tion and causes death by arrest of the respiratory centres (Ott). 
Temperature : in warm-blooded animals, toxic doses lower very 
decidedly the temperature, probably due to a direct checking 
of tissue changes. Secretion : at first the secretions and ex- 
cretions are diminished, but, later, they are increased in amount. 
If a very large dose is taken, they are increased primarily. No 
lachrymation, salivation or catarrh is produced, as after the 
administration of the iodides. After large doses, micturition 
is less frequent, because the vesical irritability is diminished, — 
not because the amount of urine is decreased. A very large 
dose may paralyze the sphincter and produce incontinence of 
urine. The amount of urea eliminated is diminished, as is, 
also, the amount of carbonic acid exhaled from the lungs. 
The perspiration is also decreased. 



POTASSIUM BROMIDE. 69 

In man, the action of the bromides is similar to the action in 
animals ; the cerebral symptoms being, however, more marked, 
because of the greater development of the hemispheres. When 
long continued, potassium bromide exerts a very marked de- 
pressing effect upon the sexual functions, enfeebling the sexual 
vigor, and even diminishing the sexual appetite. These symp- 
toms pass away when the drug is withheld. When considerable 
doses are given for a long period, a train of symptoms is 
produced to which the name bromism is applied. These are 
mental weakness, great drowsiness, failure of memory, anaemia, 
malnutrition, and depression of spirits', with often impaired 
sensibility of the mucous and cutaneous surfaces, diminution 
of the sexual functions, and an eruption on the skin (generally 
on the face and back), usually of acne, which rarely suppurates, 
occasionally of eczema, and, very rarely, rupial ulcers may be 
seen. Elimination : potassium bromide is eliminated chiefly 
by the kidneys ; but, also, by the mucous membranes of the 
fauces, intestinal canal, and bronchi, by the skin, and by the 
salivary glands. Traces may be found in the urine ten minutes 
after its administration, but elimination is slow. No case of 
acute poisoning by potassium bromide has been reported. 

Antagonists and Incompatibles. — Acids, acidulous and me- 
tallic salts are incompatible with potassium bromide. It is 
antagonized in its physiological action by alcohol, ether, coffee, 
cold, digitalis, strychnia, belladonna, ergot, and other remedies 
which stimulate the vaso-motor nerves and induce arterial 
congestion. 

It is aided in its action on the brain by cannabis indica, 
chloral, opium, and similar remedies ; the depressing effects on 
the circulation are enhanced by aconite, veratrum viride, gel- 
semium, etc. 

Medicinal Uses. — From its action on the nervous system, 
potassium bromide is much used to quiet cerebral excitement, 
and for its sedative effect on the reflex centres of the cord. 
As a narcotic (by causing anaemia of the brain), it is much used 
in wakefulness, due to cerebral hyperaemia, or even when not 
more than the normal amount of blood is sent to the brain ; in 



70 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

wakefulness and wandering during convalescence from acute 
diseases ; and in sleeplessness due to worry, grief, dyspepsia, 
and overwork ; also in cases of night-horror in children, where 
they awake suddenly, and scream with fright, often for a con- 
siderable time, small doses of this salt and a light supper will 
frequently effect a cure; adults subject to nightmare will often 
find relief in the temporary use of potassium bromide ; to allay 
restlessness, remove delusions, calm delirium, and produce sleep 
in the early stages of delirium tremens, it is given in doses of 
grs. xx to grs. xxx every two hours until sleep is produced. 
It is more efficient in-the early. stages, and can be relied on 
with more certainty in the first than in subsequent attacks. 
Potassium bromide is often combined with other narcotics, as 
opium, chloral, etc., to aid their action, and even to modify 
their disagreeable effects. It will generally prove beneficial in 
women suffering from nervousness ; great despondency, amount- 
ing to a feeling of approaching madness ; irritability ; want of 
interest in their surroundings ; sleeplessness and harassing 
dreams, caused by overwork, want of change, grief, or worry. 
If the medicine does not succeed alone, it will when combined 
with a. change of scene. In some cases of hysteria, potassium 
bromide is a valuable remedy. In all forms of convulsions 
(epilepsy, chorea, convulsions of Bright's disease, convulsions 
of children, etc.) it will prove beneficial, by diminishing the 
reflex function of the cord. In epilepsy the bromides are pre- 
eminently of service, lessening the frequency of the attacks, if 
not absolutely preventing their recurrence. It is stated by 
Troussea and by Bartholow that it is less efficient in attacks 
of "petit mal than in those of severer form ; but Dr. A. Hughes 
Bennett has recently published a number of cases of the lighter 
variety, in the majority of which the bromides proved success- 
ful. It should be given in sufficient doses to prevent reflex 
retching or nausea, when the fauces are tickled (Voisin), and 
must be continued for years, with an occasional intermission of 
a week or two. Potassium bromide has been successfully used 
in the treatment of strychnia-poisoning ; it should be given in 
doses of 5y\ frequently repeated, as the case may require. It 



AMMONIUM BROMIDE. Yl 

has also been successfully used in tetanus. It has been recom- 
mended during dentition, to allay irritability and restlessness 
and prevent convulsions. In the reflex forms of vomiting, as 
the vomiting of pregnancy and of sea-sickness, and in migraine 
or sick headache (especially in the congestive forms), it is some- 
times beneficial. In the colic of infants, unaccompanied by 
diarrhoea, it is an excellent remedy, relieving pain and spasm* 
and producing sleep. It is used, too, to obtund the sensibility 
of the fauces, before the exhibition of the laryngoscope. 

From its sedative influence on the organs of generation, it is 
used with success in nymphomania, spermatorrhoea and mas- 
turbation. It decreases the flow of blood in menorrhagia. 
The flushes of heat, followed by sweating and prostration, 
occurring at the menopause, are generally cured by the use of 
potassium bromide. 

Administration. — Dose, grs. v-5j or more. In epilepsy it 
is given in doses of grs. xx-xxx, thrice daily, and continued 
for a long period, with occasional intervals of a week or two. 
If bromism occurs, stop the remedy for the time, and give 
tonics. The bromide rashes are easily cured by withdrawing 
the medicine, and giving liquor potassii arsenitis internally in 
small doses, and the local use of an ointment containing iodide 
of sulphur. Potassium bromide should be administered in 
solution, and preferably between meals. 

AMMONII BROMIDUM — AMMONIUM BROMIDE. 

Ammonium bromide (NH 4 Br) is prepared by mixing bromine 
with iron wire in distilled water, agitating the mixture until 
the liquid assumes a greenish colour, and then agitating water 
of ammonia with the mixture. By evaporation, a white, gran- 
ular salt is obtained, which, on exposure to the air, gradually 
becomes yellowish (in consequence of the liberation of hydro- 
bromic acid), has a saline, pungent taste, is very soluble in 
water, and moderately so in alcohol. 

Physiological Effects. — The action of ammonium bromide 
resembles, in many respects, that of the potassium salt. When 
applied locally to the motor nerves, spinal centres, heart, or 



72 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

voluntary muscles, it does not destroy their functions, and has 
less influence, when administered internally, on the circulation, 
respiration, and temperature. 

Medicinal Uses. — It has been used for the same conditions 
in which potassium bromide is given. Echeverrhia prefers the 
ammonium bromide in epileptic maniacal excitement, but states 
that it will fail unless combined with chloral, cannabis indica, 
or other narcotic, or, better still, with ergot. The combined 
use of ammonium and potassium bromide has been recommended 
by Brown-Sequard. Da Costa highly recommends its use in acute 
rheumatism. It has also been used with advantage in pertussis. 

Administration. — It is given in doses of gr. v-xxx, thrice 
daily, and is best administered in some bitter infusion. 

Sodii Bromidum [Sodium Bromide) (NaBr) may be pre- 
pared in a similar manner to potassium bromide. 

In its physiological effects it resembles potassium bromide, 
but is much feebler. 

It is used in the same diseases and in the same doses as is 
the potassium salt. 

Lithii Bromidum (Lithium Bromide) (LiBr) has been rec- 
ommended as the most efficacious of the bromides. S. Weir 
Mitchell has found it efficient in grs. x-xx doses, in some cases 
of epilepsy, after potassium bromide had failed. It has been 
used in gout, but not with much success. It contains a larger 
per cent, of bromine than do the other salts, and is very soluble. 

Calcii Bromidum (Calcium Bromide) (CaBr 2 ) has been 
employed for the same purposes and in the same doses as 
potassium bromide. 

LACTUCARIUM. 

Lactucarium (sometimes called lettuce-opium) is the con- 
crete juice of Lactuca sativa, the garden lettuce (Nat. Ord. 
Composite), and is obtained from incisions in the plant, in the 
stem, during the period of inflorescence. Another and inferior 
mode of procuring it is by expression and evaporation of the 
expressed juice. Two varieties are found in the market : Eng- 
lish lactucarium, which occurs in small, irregular lumps, of a 
reddish-brown colour externally, an opiate smell, and a bitter, 



BELLADONNA. 73 

unpleasant taste, and German lactucarium (which is inferior), 
in four-sided pieces, from an inch to an inch and a half thick. 
The active principle, termed lactucin, is said to possess less hyp- 
notic power than the crude drug. Lactucarium prepared from 
the juice of the Lactuca elongata, American or wild lettuce, has 
been found to possess eifects similar to those of the officinal article. 
Effects and Uses. — Lactucarium possesses very feebly the 
anodyne and hypnotic qualities of opium, with a slight sedative 
action on the circulation, but it is an uncertain preparation. 
It may be given where opium disagrees from idiosyncrasy in 
the patient. Dose, gr. x. The syrup is the most eligible form 
of administration. Dose, two to four fluidrachms. 

BELLADONNA. 

Belladonnae Folia, Belladonna Leaves ; Belladonnas Radix, Belladonna Root. 

Atropa Belladonna, or Deadly Nightshade (Nat. Ord. Sol- 
anacese), is a European perennial plant, with herbaceous, 
branched, downy stems, about three or four feet high, large 
ovate leaves of a dull-green colour, and drooping, bell-shaped 
purple flowers. The whole plant possesses narcotic properties, 
but the leaves and root only are officinal. The root should 
be obtained from plants more than two years old ; the dried 
root is long, round, from one to seven inches in thickness, 
branched, of a reddish-brown colour, of little odour, and a 
feeble sweetish taste. 

The physiological properties of belladonna depend on the 
presence of an alkaloid termed atropia, combined with malic 
acid, which is found in all parts of the plant. It is officinal, 
and is prepared from the root by exhaustion with alcohol, 
afterwards adding sulphuric acid, precipitating with potassa, 
dissolving the atropia in chloroform, and then evaporating the 
chloroform. Atropia (C 17 H 23 N0 3 ) occurs in the form of yel- 
lowish-white, silky, prismatic crystals, without smell, but of a 
bitter, acrid taste, soluble in alcohol, more so in ether, still 
more so in chloroform, but only partially soluble in water. 
Auric chloride gives with atropia solution a yellow precip- 
itate, and cyanogen gas passed through its alcoholic solution 



74 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

strikes a deep-red colour. The best test is bromine, in hydro- 
brouiic acid, which produces a yellow amorphous precipitate, 
soon becoming crystalline ; the physiological test should also 
be applied by dilating the pupil of a rabbit or a cat by local 
application to the eye. It is a most energetic poison, produc- 
ing analogous effects to those of belladonna, but much more 
powerful. Latterly, atropia has been a good deal employed 
medicinally as a substitute for belladonna, on account of its 
greater certainty. The dose to begin with for internal use is 
about one-thirtieth of a grain in solution, one-sixtieth of a 
grain for hypodermic injection. As a collyrium to dilate the 
pupil, a solution of a grain in four fluidrachms of water, with 
a few drops of acetic acid, may be employed, and a drop of the 
solution applied to the eye. A tincture (atropia gr. j, diluted 
alcohol f §ss) is used for the same purpose — dose, for internal 
use, 8 drops. Atropia sulphate is also officinal ; it is obtained 
in the form of a white, slightly crystalline powder, very soluble 
in water and alcohol, but insoluble in ether ; dose the same as 
that of atropia. 

Physiological Effects of Belladonna. — Belladonna applied 
locally diminishes sensation and can be absorbed through the 
unbroken skin. Nervous system : in small doses it is a cere- 
bral exhilarant, tending to produce hallucinations and delirium 
and sometimes sopor, but it is not a true hypnotic. Belladonna 
dilates the pupil in whatever way exhibited. When dropped 
into the eye it brings about dilatation by paralysis of the 
end-organs of the third nerve and stimulation of the sym- 
pathetic. Internally it is also thought to cause pupillary 
dilatation by a local action. In large doses the excitability 
of the motor and the sensibility of the sensory nerves is 
impaired by this drug, while the contractility of the striated 
muscles remains unaltered. On the motor nervous centres it 
acts as a paralyzing and tetanic agent. Circulation : here 
the drug increases the heart's movements by stimulating the 
cardiac ganglia of the sympathetic and paralyzing the peri- 
pheral ends of the pneumogastrics. An increase in blood 
pressure also takes place. Respiration : belladonna increases 



BELLADONNA. 75 

respiration by stimulation of that centre. Temperature : in 
small doses it increases temperature and in large reduces it. 
Secretion : belladonna checks the salivary secretion by para- 
lyzing the inhibitory nerves from the chorda tympani to the 
submaxillary gland, hence the dryness of the mouth and throat 
observed in the employment of this drug. Its effect on the 
urinary secretion is doubtful, except that it increases the solids, 
while it effectually checks the secretions of the skin by a local 
paralyzing action on the peripheral nerve end-organs ; upon the 
intestinal secretory apparatus its action is questionable, though 
it increases intestinal peristalsis. Atropia is eliminated by the 
kidneys. Belladonna, however used, has the power to check 
the secretion of the mammary glands. In larger doses it causes 
dilatation of the pupils, loss of vision, giddiness, constriction 
of the throat, difficulty of deglutition and articulation, increased 
heart-action, quickened respiration, elevation of temperature, 
marked diuresis, nausea, with occasional vomiting and purging, 
and sometimes a red eruption. When excessive doses are taken 
the temperature of the body falls, the muscular system is re- 
laxed, sensation is impaired, the pulse fails, and maniacal 
delirium sets in, followed by coma, syncope, and death, often 
preceded by convulsions. Dissections show that the action of 
the poison is not confined to the cerebro-spinal system, but that 
it is attended by inflammation of the digestive organs. Cases 
of poisoning from belladonna are to be treated by evacuation 
of the stomach, cathartics, and, if coma occurs, by the electro- 
magnetic battery. Opium and phy so stigma are the physio- 
logical antidotes, or hypodermic injections of solutions of the 
salts of morphia may be administered. As atropia and its salts 
are decomposed and rendered inert by prolonged contact with 
caustic alkalies, the solutions of potassa and soda are recom- 
mended as antidotes for belladonna, and are to be considered 
also as medicinally incompatible with it ; lime-solution is said 
to have the same action. Applied to the eyebrow, belladonna 
causes dilatation of the pupil ; and accompanying its mydriatic 
action are paralysis of accommodation and a diminished intra- 
ocular pressure. 



76 MATERIA MEDICA NARCOTICS. 

Medicinal Uses. — Belladonna is one of our most highly es- 
teemed anodyne and antispasmodic remedies. It is destitute of 
hypnotic effect, and, on the contrary, has a tendency to occasion 
wakefulness. In the treatment of neuralgia it ranks at the 
head of the narcotics, and is extensively employed both alone 
and in combination with quinia sulphate. It should be 
given until dryness of the throat, dilatation of the pupil, and 
some disorder of vision are produced. Its powers of allaying 
spasm have been found very efficacious in the treatment of 
whooping-cough and asthma. In lead colic, spasmodic con- 
striction of the bowels generally, dysmenorrhoea, laryngismus 
stridulus, chorea, and tetanus, belladonna ranks among the best 
antispasmodic remedies. In spasmodic stricture of the urethra, 
the local application of belladonna ointment to the urethra by 
a bougie is very efficacious. In mania and many diseases of 
the cerebro-spinal system, especially epilepsy, it has been occa- 
sionally employed with advantage. As a stimulant to the cir- 
culatory system, it is now thought useful wherever collapse is 
threatened from failure of the circulation, and especially in 
syncope from cardiac disease. Its action on the kidneys ren- 
ders it useful in chronic Bright's disease ; and, by its influence 
in relieving irritability of the bladder, it is probably the best 
remedy for the nocturnal incontinence of urine of children. In 
constipation, iritis, and as a prophylactic against scarlatina, it 
is also resorted to. As a preventive of scarlatina, it was orig- 
inally proposed from its power of affecting the throat and skin, 
and respectable authority is not wanting in confirmation of its 
efficacy in this particular. It is used, too, in cases of poisoning 
by opium. Lately, hypodermic injections of -^ to e \ of a grain 
of atropia have been found useful in checking colliquative night 
sweats, especially in phthisis. In myalgia and lumbago the 
hypodermic injection of atropia gives speedy relief, and may 
be advantageously combined with morphia. 

As a topical remedy, belladonna is employed as an anodyne, 
and also to relieve rigidity of the os uteri in labour. The local 
use of atropia in diseases of the eye is of the greatest import- 
ance ; solutions of the alkaloid or its sulphate may be dropped 



STRAMONIUM. 77 

into the conjunctival sac, to relieve pain and photophobia, to 
determine the refraction of the eye from its influence on accom- 
modation, in the diagnosis of suspected cataract, in operations 
for cataract, in iritis, prolapsus iridis, and ulcers of the cornea 
generally. Gelatine wafers, containing J$ to T ^ of a grain 
of atropia, are sometimes used to dilate the pupil for ophthalmo- 
scopic purposes. 

Homotr opine : obtained from tropine amygdalate, atropia 
having been split into tropine and tropic acid. It is similar 
in its effects to atropia, except that it retards the heart's action. 
Applied to the pupil, it quickly brings about wide dilatation, 
and moreover is unirritating, hence it is an acquisition in ocular 
therapeutics. 

Administration. — The dose of the powder of the root or 
leaves is gr. j, to be repeated and increased till dryness of the 
throat, dilatation of the pupil, and dimness of vision are pro- 
duced. It is most frequently exhibited in the form of extract 
(or inspissated juice) of the fresh leaves. Dose, \ to J a grain, 
to be repeated and increased. The tincture (5iv of the leaves 
to diluted alcohol Oij — dose, 15 to 30 drops) and the alcoholic 
extract are also officinal. The fluid extract of belladonna 
root contains a 5j of root in a f 5 of extract — dose, 2 to 5 drops. 
Suppositories of belladonna (made with alcoholic extract of 
belladonna 1 part and oil of theobroma 59 parts) contain 
each half a grain of extract. For external use, a plaster 
(emplastrum belladonnas) and an ointment (unguentum bel- 
ladonnas) are employed. 

STRAMONIUM. 

Stramonii Folia. Stramonium Leaves : Stramonii Semen, Stramonium Seed. 

Datura Stramonium, or Thorn-Apple, sometimes called 
Jamestown weed (Nat. Orel. Solanacese), is an annual indige- 
nous plant, which grows very abundantly in waste grounds in 
all parts of the world. It has a forked, branching stem, from 
three to six feet high, ovate, toothed leaves, large funnel-shaped 
white or purplish flowers, which appear in midsummer, and 



78 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

ovate capsules, filled with numerous kidney-shaped, brownish- 
black seeds. The odour of the plant is strong and disagreeable, 
and its taste bitter and nauseous. It loses these properties 
very much when dried, but the process does not appear to 
weaken its narcotic qualities. The leaves and seeds are offici- 
nal, but the seeds are most powerful from containing mostdaturia. 



Fig. 6 




V»* 



The active principle of Stramonium is an alkaloid termed datu- 
ria, found combined with malic acid, which possesses properties 
analogous to those of atropia. Another alkaloid, stramonin, has 
been isolated (Trommsdorff), but its action has not been ascer- 
tained. 

The physiological effects of stramonium are closely allied to 
those of belladonna, with a more marked action on the secre- 
tions. From its common occurrence in every part of the 
country, cases of poisoning from this weed are very frequent, 
particularly with children, who are fond of swallowing the 
seeds. The treatment laid down for the relief of poisoning 
from belladonna is applicable to these cases. 

The medicinal uses of stramonium are similar to those of 
belladonna. It is prescribed internally in neuralgia, whooping- 
cough, mania, and epilepsy ; and in spasmodic asthma, cigar- 
ettes of the leaves are smoked with great relief. The practice 



HTOSCYAMUS. 79 

is, however, dangerous in aged or apoplectic persons. Topi- 
cally, stramonium is used by oculists to dilate the pupils and 
diminish the sensibility of the retina to light ; and it is an 
excellent anodyne application, in the form of cataplasm and 
ointment, to inflammatory tumours, irritable ulcers, bed-sores, 
and hemorrhoids. 

Administration. — The dose of the powdered leaves is gr. ij ; 
of the seeds, a grain, to be repeated and gradually increased 
till narcotic effects are produced. Dose of the extract of the 
leaves, gr. j, to commence with ; of the extract of the seed, gr. J. 
The tincture (giv of the seed to diluted alcohol Oij, dose 20 to 
40 drops), and the ointment made by mixing the extract of the 
leaves with lard, are also officinal. 

HYOSCYAMUS. 

Hyoscyami Folia, Hyoscyamus Leaves ; Hyoscyami Semen, Hyoscyamus 

Seed. 

Hyoscyamus niger, or Henbane (Nat. Ord. Solanacese), is a 
native of Europe, and is naturalized in the northern parts of 
the United States. It grows to the height of about two feet, 
with large sinuated, pale-green leaves, and flowers of a straw- 
yellow colour. The whole plant has narcotic properties ; but 
the leaves and seeds only are officinal. Henbane should be 
gathered when in flower. The active properties of the plant 
depend upon an alkaloid termed hyoscyamia (C 15 H 23 N0 3 ), 
nearly identical in its action with atropia, but more soluble 
in water. Dose, gr. -J^ to gr. j ; hypodermically, gr. g 1 ^ to 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of henbane on the system 
much resemble those of belladonna. They differ from those of 
opium in their comparatively feeble hypnotic effect, and in their 
relaxing influence on the bowels. In large doses it causes dil- 
atation of the pupil, delirium, loss of vision and, generally, 
sleep. It is eliminated by the kidneys. In cases of poisoning, 
the same treatment is to be pursued as for belladonna and stra- 
monium. Henbane may be used remedially, in the samedis- 



80 



MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 



eases as belladonna and stramonium, than which it is, however, 
less active. It has been administered also, from the earliest 
days, to palliate cough, where opium is objectionable, from its 
constipating or nauseating influence. Hyosciamia is highly 
recommended (Lawson), in the dose of gr. j to gr. jss, to quiet 
the violence of mania. Externally, it is employed in the form 




of cataplasm or fomentation to painful swellings and ulcers ; 
and it may be used to dilate the pupil, in the same manner as 
belladonna. 

Dose of the powdered leaves, gr. v to gr. x ; of the seeds, 
somewhat less. The extract (an inspissated juice of the leaves) 
is the preferable form of administration ; it is of a dark-olive 
colour, and extremely variable quality. Dose, gr. ij to gr. v. 
Tincture (§iv to diluted alcohol Oij), dose foj- An alcoholic 
extract and a fluid extract (dose 10-20 drops) are also 
officinal. 



TOBACCO. 81 

TABACUM — TOBACCO. 

Nicotiana Tabacum, or Virginia Tobacco {Nat. Ord. Sola- 
naceae), is a native of the warm countries of America. It is 
an annual plant, growing to the height of from three to six 
feet, with large oblong, pointed, hairy, pale-green leaves, and 
light-greenish, funnel-shaped flowers. The dried leaves are 
the portion used. They have a yellowish-brown colour, a 
strong, peculiar, narcotic odour, and a bitter, nauseous taste. 
The darker-coloured leaves are the strongest. 

The virtues of tobacco are imparted to alcohol and water, 
and depend on the presence of an alkaloid called nicotia 
(C 10 H 14 N 2 ), which is found in all parts of the plant. It is a 
colourless, oily, volatilizable, alkaline liquid, highly soluble in 
water, alcohol, ether, chloroform, the fixed oils, and oil of tur- 
pentine, of a feeble odour when cold, but irritant when heated, 
of an acrid, burning taste, and is a most energetic poison, rank- 
ing after prussic acid. From the dried leaves are also obtained 
a concrete volatile oil, termed nicotianin, which is probably the 
odorous principle of the plant, and an empyreumatic oil, which 
gives the peculiar smell to old tobacco pipes. Both of these 
principles are poisonous. 

Physiological Effects. — Local action : applied to the skin 
tobacco is readily absorbed. On persons unaccustomed to its 
use tobacco, in small doses, produces nausea, depression, and a 
feeling of wretchedness. Nervous system : tobacco expends its 
action on the spinal cord, and not upon the brain, and nicotia, 
in full doses, acts as a tetanizing agent on man. Nicotia con- 
tracts the pupil either locally or internally. The conductivity 
of the motor nerves is more or less abolished, and lastly that of 
the spinal cord, while the voluntary muscles remain unaffected. 
These remarks apply to lethal doses of the drug. Circulation : 
the blood of a person under the influence of tobacco has been 
found to present a crenated appearance of the red globlules. 
Tobacco is not a cardiac poison, since the application of nicotia 
to the cut-out heart will not stop its beats ; nevertheless it acts 
to slow the cardiac action and temporarily reduce blood pres- 



82 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

sure. It causes death by paralyzing the muscles of respira- 
tion. Intestines : tobacco has a relaxing influence upon this tract, 
and the injection of nicotia induces intestinal peristalsis. Nicotia 
is probably eliminated by the kidneys. In larger doses, it in- 
duces vomiting and purging, a sensation of sinking at the pit 
of the stomach, giddiness, disorder of vision, the pupils being 
contracted, depression of the circulation, great relaxation of 
the muscular system, coldness of the surface, and other symp- 
toms of prostration ; and, when excessive doses have been 
taken, these symptoms become more violent, and are followed 
by clonic convulsions, paralysis, and death. Cases of poison- 
ing are to be treated with the diffusible stimuli, after washing 
out the stomach, and strychnia is to be used hypodermically. 

The habitual use of tobacco as an exhilarant is well known. 
When taken to excess, it frequently develops disorders of the 
stomach, heart, and nervous system. 

Medicinal Uses.-^ Tobacco is employed in medicine chiefly 
with a view to its action on the muscular system — its anodyne 
properties being relatively feeble. In various spasmodic dis- 
eases, particularly in colic, ileus, strangulated hernia, consti- 
pation from spasmodic constriction, tetanus, spasm of the neck 
of the bladder and the glottis, and asthma, it is a remedy of 
great value. It has been also successfully applied to the treat- 
ment of poisoning by strychnia. Internally, tobacco is to be 
employed with caution, as it occasionally acts with dangerous 
energy. Stupes of an infusion of tobacco (half an ounce to a 
pint of water) have been found an efficacious application to 
wounds, in cases of traumatic tetanus. 

Administration. — Tobacco is not given by the stomach, 
owing to its emetic properties. It is usually administered by 
the rectum, in the form of infusion (5j-Qj of boiling water, 
one-third to be given at a dose), or tobacco-smoke may be intro- 
duced into the rectum. It may also be smoked for medicinal 
effect, or applied locally in the form of cataplasm. Ointment 
of Tobacco ( Unguentum Tabaci) is made by mixing a watery 
extract with lard ; it is a useful application to indolent ulcers 
and some cutaneous affections, particularly tinea capitis, but 



LOBELIA. 83 

the external application of tobacco to abraded surfaces of con- 
siderable extent has occasioned dangerous consequences. The 
Wine of Tobacco (Vinum Tabaci) is occasionally used as a 
diuretic — dose 20-30 drops. The Oil is sometimes mixed with 
ointments. 

DUBOISIA. 

The leaves of the Duboisia myopceoides (Nat. Ord. Solana- 
ceae), a tree-like shrub of Australia. They are three to 
four inches long and one inch broad, entire, smooth and lance- 
olate. An alkaloid, duboisia, has been isolated (Gerrard and 
Petit, 1878), resembling atropia in action ; chemically, it differs 
from it in being coloured brown by sulphuric acid, and is more 
soluble in water. Its salts are readily soluble in water. Dose 
for ophthalmic purposes, gr. ij to iv to f§j water. Its physi- 
ological action is antagonized by opium and jphysostigma. 
Duboisia produces almost similar effects to those of atropia. 
The mental excitement, however, which it causes is followed by 
stupor. Its effect is best seen on the pupil, which it dilates no 
matter how exhibited. It differs from atropia in causing more 
rapid dilatation, total paralysis of accommodation, and in being 
less irritating. The use of duboisia is confined to ocular thera- 
peutics. (On Duboisia, Norris, Ringer, Seely, Weeker and 
Bancroft.) 

LOBELIA. 

Lobelia inflata, or Indian tobacco (Nat. Ord. Lobeliaceas), is 
a very common annual or biennial indigenous plant, growing to 
the height of from six inches to two feet, an erect, hairy stem, 
ovate, serrated leaves, pale-blue flowers, and ovoid, inflated cap- 
sules. All parts of it are active, but the leaves and tops only 
are officinal. Water and alcohol extract the virtues of lobelia, 
which contain a volatile alkaloid, lobelina (analogous to nico- 
tia), lobelic acid, fixed and volatile oil, gum, chlorophyl, 
etc. Lobelina is a yellowish liquid, lighter than water, of an 
aromatic odour, an acrid taste, soluble in water, but more so in 
alcohol and ether. 



84 



MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 



Physiological Effects. — Lobelia produces effects on the sys- 
tem analogous to those of tobacco, acting in small doses as a 
sedative, nauseant, and diaphoretic. According to Ott's inves- 
tigations (Bost. Med. and Surg. Journ. 1875) the alkaloid pro- 
duced in the rabbit curious alterations of blood pressure, viz., 



Fig. 8. 




first a fall, followed generally by a rise, and lastly a very de- 
cided fall ; also slower respiration, paralysis, reduction of tem- 
perature, and death from asphyxia. Lobelia, like tobacco, 
retards the heart's action, and it is said increases the urinary 
flow. Lobelia, in an unexplained way, relieves bronchial spasm. 



ACONITE. 85 

There are on record numerous cases of death from large doses 
of lobelia. Complete investigations of the action of lobelia 
have not yet been made. In large doses it is an energetic 
emetic ; and in still larger doses destroys life by paralyzing 
the respiratory centre in the medulla oblongata, the pupil 
being contracted. It was employed by the aborigines, and has 
always been a popular empirical remedy. 

Medicinal Uses. — Lobelia is sometimes classed among emet- 
ics, but its action in this particular is too violent for its safe 
administration. It is chiefly employed, by regular practition- 
ers, with a view to its antispasmodic properties, for the relief 
of asthma, angina pectoris, and cardiac dyspnoea, and is given 
in small doses, gradually increased until headache or nausea 
ensues. In asthma, Ringer advises lobelia to be given in large 
doses, viz., f5i of the tincture every hour, or even every half- 
hour. The chief drawback to its use is its uncertainty and the 
nausea and depression it produces. In asthma it possesses no 
curative power, seeming to be beneficial by reason of its anti- 
spasmodic and expectorant properties. It may also be used as 
an enema, to fulfill the same indications as tobacco. 

Administration. — Lobelia is given in substance, tincture, and 
infusion. The dose of the powder as an antispasmodic is gr. j 
to gr. iij ; as an emetic, gr. v to gr. xx. The best form, par- 
ticularly in asthma, is the tincture (giv to diluted alcohol Oij), 
which may be given in the quantity of f 5ss to j, to be repeated 
as occasion may require. 

Acetum Lobelia ( Vinegar of Lobelia), made with diluted 
acetic acid, is a good preparation, in which the- alkaloid is fixed 
by the acetic acid ; it is of the same strength, and may be given 
in the same doses, as the tincture. 

A C N I T U M — A C N I T E. 

Aconiti Folia, Aconite Leaves ; Aconiti Radix, Aconite Root. 

Aconitum Napellus, Aconite, Wolfsbane, or Monkshood (Nat, 
Ord. Ranunculacese), is a native of the mountainous parts of 
Europe and Asia. The leaves and root are both used, but 



86 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

the root is the more powerful. They are brought from Europe, 
India, and Japan, and other species of Aconitum than A. 
Napellus furnish some of the aconite of commerce. Their taste 
is bitterish and acrid, and when chewed they occasion a pecul- 
iar feeling of tingling and numbness in the tongue and interior 
of the mouth. These properties sere impaired by long keeping, 
and the plant loses its medicinal efficacy. The active principle 
of aconite is an alkaloid named aeonitia (C 33 H 43 N0 12 ), which is 
officinal. Two other alkaloids, pseudaconitia (C 36 H 49 NO n ) and 
napellina, have been found in it, but the chemistry of aconite 
is not well settled. 

Aconitia exists in combination with a peculiar acid termed 
aconitic, and is prepared from an aqueous solution of an 
alcoholic extract of aconite root, by the addition of sul- 
phuric acid (which converts the natural salt of aconitia into a 
sulphate). It is a white amorphous powder, with a tinge of 
yellow (though it has been obtained in crystals), without smell, 
of a bitter, acrid taste, and produces in the mouth a sense of 
numbness. It is partially soluble in water, and is readily dis- 
solved by alcohol and chloroform, less readily by ether. There 
is only one chemical test for aconitia, obtained by dissolving it 
in diluted phosphoric acid and evaporating, when a violet colour 
is produced ; in medico-legal cases, the physiological test, by 
producing numbness and tingling of the lips or skin, must be 
resorted to. As aconitia is easily decomposed, the commercial 
article is more or less impure. 

Aconitia is an exceedingly virulent poison, more powerful 
when pure than hydrocyanic acid. It is scarcely adapted to 
internal use, as even one-fiftieth of a grain has produced 
alarming results. As a topical agent in neuralgia and rheu- 
matism, it has been employed with great success in alcoholic 
solution (gr. i-ij to f5j) or as an ointment (gr. ij to lard 5j, 
rubbed up with alcohol, gtt. vj). 

Physiological Effects. — Aconite applied locally causes a sen- 
sation of numbness and tingling, induced, no doubt, by its be- 
numbing effect on the sensory nerves. Nervous system : taken 
in small doses aconite exerts no influence upon the cerebrum, 



ACONITE. 87 

but its taste is pungent and benumbing, and it produces a feel- 
ing of numbness in the head, face, and extremities. Aconite 
has no action upon the motor nerves, the paralysis caused by it 
being due to abolishment, first, of the conducting power of the 
peripheral nerves, and, secondly, of their trunks, and lastly, ex- 
tending to the spinal sensory centres. The motor spinal centres 
are only involved when total palsy has set in. Circulation : ac- 
onite exerts a marked influence on the circulatory apparatus. 
Small doses reduce the heart's action and lower the arterial pres- 
sure ; lethal doses stop the heart in diastole. Aconite applied 
directly to the heart slows it so that it may be concluded 
that the drug is a cardiac poison acting on its motor ganglia. 
It is also believed to stimulate the cardiac inhibitory apparatus. 
According to the recent researches of Ringer and Murrell, 
aconite paralyzes all nitrogenous tissues, and it is in this way 
that the heart's beats are retarded. In other words, it acts 
directly against the heart's contained motor apparatus. Res- 
piration : these movements tend to become slow, and the tem- 
perature is lowered. Secretions : aconite increases the secretion 
of the skin and kidneys, and is probably eliminated by the latter. 
In larger doses, its effects are those of an acro-narcotic poi- 
son — gastric irritation, purging, contraction or expansion of 
the pupils, numbness or paralysis of the limbs, syncope, con- 
vulsions, and death. In case of poisoning, the stomach is to 
be thoroughly evacuated, and cardiac stimulants, externally and 
internally, are to be freely administered. Digitalis is advised 
by Fothergill. 

Medicinal Uses. — Aconite is a powerful and valuable rem- 
edy in the treatment of neuralgia, chronic rheumatism, gout, 
and other painful diseases, as might be inferred from its be- 
numbing effects on the system. From its influence on the cir- 
culation, it is employed to reduce inflammatory action, to mod- 
erate an excessively rapid pulse in scarlatina and other fevers, 
and as a remedy in hypertrophy and other cases of irregular 
or excessive action of the heart. It is contra-indicated when 
the heart is weak from any cause, as dilatation, or in valvular 
incompetency. In inflammatory diseases of the serous mem- 



88 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

branes, as pleurisy, pericarditis, also in pneumonia before the 
exudative stage, aconite is a potent remedy, and should be 
given till its effects are obtained. Aconite has done much good 
in relieving an attack of tonsillitis. In controlling abnormal car- 
diac action, aconite is perhaps the most available article we 
possess, but its employment requires caution. As a topical 
anodyne, in neuralgia, it has no superior. 

Administration. — The dose of the powdered leaves is gr. j to 
gr, ij ; of the root, gr. J to gr. i ; of the alcoholic extract of the 
dried leaves, gr. \ to gr. j ; of the tincture of the root, which 
] s by far the best preparation (Sxij to alcohol Oij), 3 to 5 drops. 
These doses are to be repeated twice or thrice daily, and cau- 
tiously increased till the effects of the medicine are apparent. 
The tincture may be used externally ; but, for external appli- 
cation, the liniment (linimentum aconiti) or the plaster (em- 
plastrum aconiti) is to be preferred. 

CANNABIS AMERICANA — AMERICAN HEMP. 
CANNABIS IN DIG A — INDIAN HEMP (FEMALE PLANT). 

Cannabis sativa, or Hemp (Nat. Ord. Urticacere), is a native 
of Persia, and is cultivated in Europe and in the United States. 
Narcotic virtues were formerly thought to exist only in the 
Cannabis Indica, or Indian variety of the plant, but recent 
investigation seems to show that the hemp plants raised in the 
southern States, as Kentucky, are active, and might replace 
the East Indian drug. 

Gunjah is the dried compressed female flowers ; churrus is 
an impure resinous exudation, while bhang consists of the broken 
stalks and leaves made up with fruits ; it is known as hashish. 

The flowering tops of both varieties are officinal, but 
should be used only when unripe and green. By evaporating 
concentrated alcoholic solutions of these, Extracts are ob- 
tained (extr actum cannabis Americanos and extr actum cannabis 
Indicoi), which are the forms usually employed. Extract of 
hemp is of a dark olive-green colour, a fragrant narcotic odour, 
and a bitter, acrid taste. It is soluble in alcohol and ether, 



hops. 89 

but not in water. The resin, which is the active principle, has 
received the name of cannabin. A volatile oil has been iso- 
lated, which has been decomposed into cannabene and canna- 
bene hydride. 

Effects and Uses. — Indian hemp is not used locally. Nerv- 
ous system : in medicinal doses it exerts a peculiar exhilarating 
effect upon the brain, the mental excitement induced by it 
being of an agreeable kind. In this condition ideas flow read- 
ily, and conception of time is lost. Sometimes the delirium in- 
duced by hemp causes the individual to do deeds of violence, 
but it does not act upon all alike. One of the symptoms is a 
sense of weight about the extremities, accompanied by a loss of 
muscular power, and often a cataleptic state ; there is also cuta- 
neous anaesthesia. Sleep follows the intoxicating effects of hemp, 
and the individual is unconscious of what has happened when 
recovery has taken place. The after-effects are those of 
depression. It has no action upon respiration, circulation, 
or the secretions. It is said to increase the appetite, and 
aphrodisiac properties have been attributed to it. It is un- 
known how it is eliminated. Though lethal doses of hemp 
have produced alarming symptoms, there are no recorded fatal 
cases. It has been chiefly extolled as an antispasmodic in 
traumatic tetanus, but has been employed with success in other 
spasmodic diseases, as chorea, hysteria, etc., to relieve cerebral 
irritability in diabetes, and as an anodyne in rheumatism, gout, 
neuralgia, etc. It has also been given with advantage as an 
hypnotic in both mania and mania-a-potu ; and its powers of 
exciting uterine contractions, and of checking uterine hemor- 
rhagic discharges, are highly spoken of. Dose, from half a 
grain to two or more grains. The tincture is made by dissolv- 
ing 5vi of the extract of Indian Hemp in a pint of alcohol ; 
forty drops of this are about equal to a grain of the extract. 

HUMULUS — HOPS. 

Hops are the strobiles of Humulus lupulus, or Hop-vine 
(Nat* Ord. Urticaceae), a climbing vine, indigenous in Europe, 



90 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

and probably also in North America, with serrated, rough 
leaves and greenish-yellow flowers. The medicinal portion is 
the fruit, or strobiles, which are also largely employed in 
the preparation of malt liquors, and are known as hops. Near 
their base are two small round, dark seeds, covered with 
aromatic glands or grains, which are the active portion of the 
hops, and are termed lupulin. They are separated by thresh- 
ing, rubbing, and sifting the scales, and constitute about a 
sixth part of the weight of hops. 

Lupulin (lupulinum) is officinal, and consists of rounded or 
reniform, rather transparent grains, of a cellular texture, and 
a golden-yellow colour. It is slightly soluble in water, and 
completely so in alcohol, and is composed of a volatile oil, a 
bitter principle termed lupulite, resin, tannic acid, and other 
matters. The scaly bracts contain a small portion of lupulinic 
matter. 

Effects and Uses.- — Hops are tonic and feebly narcotic. 
The narcotic properties probably reside in the volatile oil, and 
the tonic properties in the bitter principle. They are said, 
also, to possess antaphrodisiac and astringent properties, and 
sometimes prove diuretic. The odorous emanation is employed 
as an hypnotic by means of the hop-pillow. Internally, they 
are given to relieve restlessness, induce sleep, and allay pain, 
and are also much employed for their stomachic and tonic 
effect. The combination of tonic and hypnotic virtues renders 
hops an excellent remedy in mild forms of mania-a-potu. 
Topically, they are employed in the form of fomentation or 
poultice, in painful swellings and tumours. 

Administration. — Hops are given in the form of infusion 
(dose f§ij to f§iv) and tincture (dose f5j tof5iij)- 

The best preparation for internal use is Lupulin, in the dose 
of gr. v to gr. xij, in powder or pills. The tincture of lupulin 
(§iv to alcohol Oij) may be given in the dose of f5j to f o»j- 
The fluid extract is a concentrated tincture, containing the 
virtues of an ounce of lupulin in a fluidounce. The oleoresin 
also is officinal ; dose, gr. ij to v. 



BITTERSWEET. 



91 



D ULCAMARA — BITTERSWEET. 

The young branches of Solanum Dulcamara, the Woody 
Nightshade, or Bittersweet (Nat. Ord. Solanacese), a European 

Fig. 9. 




vine, naturalized in the United States, possess combined nar- 
cotic and diaphoretic properties. The active principle is a 



92 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

poisonous alkaloid termed solania (C 42 H 87 N0 15 ), which has been 
found also in Solanum tuberosum, or common potato, and S. 
nigrum, or black nightshade. In the dog 4J grs. of this alka- 
loid have produced death, hypodermically given, the symptoms 
being convulsive respiration, general convulsions and tetanic 
cramps (Fraas and Martin). 

Effects and Uses. — In small doses the most obvious effects 
of bittersweet are an increase in the secretion from the skin 
and mucous surfaces, with some diminution of sensibility. There 
are recorded cases of its having caused vomiting and cerebral con- 
gestion. Its action on the pupil is uncertain. In excessive 
doses it is an acro-narcotic poison. It is principally used in 
the form of decoction (Si boiled in a pint of water for fifteen 
minutes, and water enough afterwards added to make the 
decoction measure a pint),* dose, f§i-ij, in painful cutaneous 
affections, and also in chronic catarrh, rheumatism, and gout. 
A fluid extract (of which a f§j represents a §i of the stalks) is 
officinal. 

ACIDUM HYDROCYANICUM DILUTUM — DILUTED 
HYDROCYANIC ACID. 

Hydrocyanic acid, known also as cyanhydric acid and prussic 
acid, is derived from a variety of vegetable substances, as the 
bitter almond, peach kernels and leaves, wild cherry, cherry 
laurel, etc. It is employed in medicine only in a state of ex- 
treme dilution ; and the diluted acid is obtained by the action 
of sulphuric acid and water on potassium ferrocyanide, or, 
when wanted for immediate use, by the action of muriatic acid 
and water on silver cyanide. 

Diluted hydrocyanic acid is a colourless, volatile liquid, with 
a peculiar odour and a cooling, somewhat irritating taste. It 
undergoes decomposition if exposed to the light, and should be 
kept in bottles covered with black paint or paper ; but it is not 

* This is the usual formula for the decoctions, and is the mode of prepa- 
ration of all those which are stated to be of the strength of an ounce to a 
pint of water. 



DILUTED HYDROCYANIC ACID. 93 

a stable preparation. It contains two per cent, of the anhy- 
drous or concentrated acid. 

The anhydrous acid (HCy or HNC) is a colourless, feebly 
acid, transparent, very volatile and decomposable liquid, with 
a powerful peculiar odour, and a cooling, afterwards burning 
taste. Both water and alcohol dissolve it readily. It consists 
of one eq. of cyanogen and one of hydrogen. Its presence in 
a suspected mixture may be detected by the addition of a solu- 
tion of silver nitrate, which throws down a white, curdy precipi- 
tate of silver cyanide, distinguishable by its exhaling the pecul- 
iar odour of prussic acid on the addition of muriatic acid, and 
by being wholly soluble in boiling nitric acid (the silver test is 
the most delicate, when applied to prussic acid in the state of 
vapour) ; or, by adding to the suspected solution a little liquor 
potassae, and then a mixed solution of ferrous -and ferric sul- 
phate, a dirty greenish-blue precipitate is thrown down, which, 
on the addition of a few drops of pure hydrochloric acid, be- 
comes Prussian blue ; or (the best liquid test) the hydrocyanic 
acid may be converted into ammonium sulphocyanide by the 
addition of ammonium sulphide, and the salt thus formed yields 
a deep blood-red colour upon the addition of any ferric salt 
(the sulphur test may be advantageously employed also as a 
vapour test) ; or, fourthly, by the copper test (which may be 
also used in the form of vapour) : the liquid is first rendered 
slightly alkaline by liquor potassse, and, on adding a diluted 
solution of copper sulphate, a greenish-white precipitate is 
thrown down. 

Physiological Effects. — Locally : hydrocyanic acid applied 
directly to the skin exerts a benumbing influence, and may be 
absorbed with the aid of friction ; to a mucous membrane or 
wound it is readily taken up. Nervous system : in small doses 
it produces no symptoms beyond a calming effect. Full doses 
cause giddiness, confusion of mind, and muscular feebleness. 
Whether large doses act on brain, vagus, or peripheral nerves 
is disputed. The convulsions which it produces are cerebral, 
for they do not occur in parts cut off from the cord (Wood, 
H.C.). In the frog, Kolliker finds that the direct application 



94 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

of hydrocyanic acid paralyzes the motor nerve trunks, and de- 
stroys the irritability of muscle, and upon the peripheral sensory 
nerves acts as a paralyzant. Since hydrocyanic acid produces 
asphyxia most rapidly in the form of vapour, Preyer concludes 
that it acts directly on the pulmonary ends of the vagi. That 
it acts directly on the nerve centres is supported by the experiment 
of Jones (N. Y. Med. Rec), in which the application of the acid 
to the medulla of an alligator caused quickly collapse of the 
lung. Circulation : prussic acid in small doses has a sedative 
action on the heart ; large doses arrest it in diastole. Applied 
directly to the heart it suspends its movements. Under prussic 
acid a temporary increase of the arterial pressure, followed by a 
permanent reduction, has been observed. Respiration : nothing 
short of 10-15 min. disturbs this act, while this amount renders 
it laboured and irregular. Large doses destroy life so quickly 
that the respirations cannot be counted. Prussic acid has no 
influence on secretion or temperature, save a slight augmenta^ 
tion of saliva. Elimination is rapid, taking place by the saliva, 
kidneys, and lungs. Opinions as to the action of prussic acid 
on the blood are contradictory. During life, under hydrocyanic 
acid, the venous blood is found to be of an arterial hue ; while 
in man and mammals, after death all the blood is dark coloured, 
probably from deficient abstraction of carbon dioxide.- Outside 
of the economy the addition of hydrocyanic acid to the blood 
produces a new body, formed from HCy and haemoglobin^ 
called cyanohsemoglobin (Hoppe-Seyler), which has no ozoniz- 
ing power, and it seems probable that the formation of this 
substance, if it takes place during life in the blood, may be 
one of the main factors in causing death. In a poisonous 
dose, hydrocyanic acid arrests life with fearful rapidity, and 
is one of the most energetic poisons known, one or two drops 
of the pure acid being sufficient to destroy a dog in a few 
seconds. When not immediately fatal, it produces great and 
sudden prostration, difficult and spasmodic respiration, dilata- 
tion and immobility, and sometimes contraction of the pupils, 
feeble pulse, diminution of temperature in the extremities, rise 
of temperature in the trunk at first, but afterwards fall of tern- 



DILUTED HYDROCYANIC ACID. 95 

perature, and involuntary evacuations. It acts on both the 
voluntary and involuntary muscles, decreasing or arresting 
entirely their property of contractility ; both the sympathetic 
and cerebro-spinal nervous systems appear to be affected. The 
best antidotes are inhalations of ammonia or its carbonate, and 
(if the patient can swallow) alcoholic stimuli are to be employed, 
and at the same time cold and hot affusions and artificial res- 
piration are to be also resorted to. The subcutaneous injection 
of atropia sulphate has been proposed, acting as a physiological 
antidote, but its rate of diffusion is too slow to be of service. 

Medicinal Uses. — Hydrocyanic acid is a valuable agent in 
allaying spasm, pain, and nervous irritability, in a variety of 
disorders, and is much used to relieve cough, particularly in 
phthisis pulmonalis, and for its antispasmodic virtues in asthma 
and whooping-cough. It is, moreover, a most efficacious remedy 
in gastrodynia and in neuralgic affections of the bowels, and 
also in chronic vomiting. Topically, it is employed as an ano- 
dyne in neuralgia, and in various forms of cutaneous disease 
(f5i to iij to water Oj-Ojss), notably urticaria and prurigo. 

Dose of the officinal acid, one or two drops, to be repeated 
and-gradually increased by a drop till some effect is perceptible. 
When it is taken for a length of time, care should be observed 
to have the medicine, as renewed, of uniform strength ; and it 
is best, in using a fresh sample, to return to the minimum dose. 

Potassii Cyanidum (Potassium Cyanide), KCy, is used as 
a substitute for hydrocyanic acid, and has the advantage of 
being a more uniform chemical product, and less liable to 
undergo decomposition. It is made by heating together 
potassium ferrocyanide and potassium carbonate, and occurs 
in white, opaque, amorphous pieces, having a sharp, somewhat 
alkaline and bitter-almond taste, and an alkaline reaction ; its 
solution yields the odour of hydrocyanic acid when exposed to 
the air. It is deliquescent, very soluble in water, and sparingly 
so in alcohol. Its medicinal and poisonous effects are the same 
as those of hydrocyanic acid. Dose, gr. J- in half an ounce of 
distilled water, to be repeated and increased. The addition of 



96 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

a few drops of some vegetable acid frees the hydrocyanic acid, 
and the same effect is produced by the acids of the stomach. 
Lethal effects may be obtained by prolonged contact with the 
skin. It is also irritant, and will produce an eschar. 

Oleum Amygdala Amarus (Oil of Bitter Almond) con- 
tains hydrocyanic acid, and may be used for the same purposes. 
It is obtained by distillation from the kernel of the fruit of 
Amygdalus communis, variety Amara (Nat. Ord. Rosaceae), 
and is of a yellowish colour, with a bitter, acrid, burning taste, 
and the peculiar odour of the bitter almond, which is different 
from that of hydrocyanic acid. It is heavier than water, 
slightly soluble in it, and soluble in alcohol and ether. It 
contains benzoic aldehyde and hydrocyanic acid, which are de- 
veloped from a principle termed atnygdalin, and water, under 
the influence of an albuminous ferment termed emuhin : thus, 
amygdalin (C 20 H 27 NO n ) + water (2H 2 0) = benzoic aldehyde 
(C 7 H 5 OH) -f HCN + glucose (2C 6 H 12 6 ). The effects of this 
oil upon the system are closely analogous to those of hydro- 
cyanic acid, and its strength is about four times that of the 
diluted officinal acid. Dose, for internal use, a quarter to half 
a drop in emulsion ; as an external application, one drop to a 
fluidounce of menstruum. Bitter Almond Water (aqua amyg- 
dalae amarae) is used as a vehicle for narcotic medicines. Dose, 
half a fluidounce. 

Syrupus Amygdala (Syrup of Almond), made from both 
the sweet and bitter almonds, is slightly impregnated with the 
virtues of hydrocyanic acid, and is a pleasant vehicle for cough 
mixtures. 

CAMPHORA — CAMPHOR. 

Camphor is a peculiar concrete volatile oil derived from 
Camphora officinarum, the Camphor-Laurel (Nat. Ord. Laura- 
ceae), a large evergreen tree of China, Japan, and the island 
of Formosa. All parts of the tree are strongly impregnated 
with camphor, which is obtained from the roots and branches 
by sublimation. In this state it is known in commerce as 



CAMPHOR. 9V 

crude camphor, and consists of dirty-grayish grains adhering 
in crumbling masses. Japan camphor (called also Dutch cam- 
phor) has a pinkish colour, and is purer though coarser than 
the China camphor, but it is not brought to the United States. 
The crude camphor, as imported from Canton, is not found in 
the shops until it is purified by resublimation with quicklime, 
when it is termed refined camphor. This occurs in large hem- 
ispherical or convex-concave cakes, perforated in the middle. 
It is solid at ordinary temperatures, soft and somewhat tough, 
but may be readily powdered by the addition of a few drops of 
alcohol. It is translucent, has a strong, fragrant odour, and 
an aromatic, bitter, afterwards cooling taste. It is volatile, 
highly inflammable, lighter than water, and very slightly 
soluble in it, but soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform, oils and 
acids. Water added to the spirit of camphor precipitates the 
camphor. 

A valuable camphor is known in the East, which is found in 
a concrete state in the cavities and fissures of the trunk of 
Dryobalanops camphora, a tree of Borneo and Sumatra. The 
Borneo camphor occurs in small fragments of crystals, which 
are transparent, brittle, and harder than the laurel camphor. 
An oil or liquid camphor is also obtained from the dryobala- 
nops, which is more highly esteemed in Oriental countries than 
the camphor itself. 

. Camphor is C 10 H 16 O, and is chemically nearly related to the 
terpenes (turpentine). Camphor forms substitution compounds 
w r ith bromine, chlorine, and iodine. When heated, it yields an 
oil called oil of camphor. By passing hydrochloric acid into 
oil of turpentine, a substance is obtained called artificial cam- 
phor. Camphor heated with zinc chloride yields cymol (C 10 H 14 ), 
and with nitric acid, camphoric aczV2(C 10 H 16 O 4 ) and camphor onic 
acid (C 9 H 12 5 ), the last two being oxidation products of camphor. 
Physiological Effects. — The topical action of camphor is 
irritant. After its absorption, its effects, in small doses, are 
moderately stimulant, exhilarant, and anodyne. In large 
doses, it causes considerable disorder of the cerebrospinal 
system, depression of the circulation, and diaphoresis ; and in 
7 



98 MATERIA MEDICA — NARCOTICS. 

excessive quantity it acts as a narcotico-irritant, occasioning 
burning heat in the stomach, violent cerebral convulsions, and 
maniacal delirium. There are no cases of death from camphor 
in healthy adults. It is also, in full doses, anaphrodisiac. 
Camphor is eliminated by the breath, skin, and urine. In 
cases of poisoning, after evacuating the stomach, opium, wine, 
etc., are to be administered. 

Medicinal Uses. — From its combined antispasmodic and 
diaphoretic powers, camphor is a valuable remedy in the treat- 
ment of dysentery, and is much employed in this disease, either 
in combination with opium or as a substitute for the latter. 
In the early stages of cholera, and in flatulent diarrhoea, it is 
also greatly prescribed. As a diaphoretic stimulant and anti- 
spasmodic, it is useful in the low stages of typhoid and typhus 
fevers, and in typhoid conditions of the system generally. In 
many forms of mental disorder it calms irritability, relieves 
despondency, and induces sleep. And it has no superior 
among the anodynes in allaying irritation or pain of the 
genito-urinary organs, as in dysmenorrhoea, uterine after- 
pains, strangury, and nymphomania. In chordee large doses 
are required — grs. 10 to 20. From its anodyne and sudorific 
properties, it is also applicable to the treatment of chronic 
rheumatism and gout. Externally, camphor is employed as an 
anodyne in rheumatism, and as a discutient in chronic inflam- 
matory affections. Powdered camphor, sniffed into the nostrils, 
is a good remedy in coryza and influenza. 

Administration. — The medium dose in substance is gr. v to 
gr. x ; but it may vary from gr. j to 3j. It is best given in 
emulsion, made by rubbing up the camphor with loaf sugar, 
gum arabic, myrrh, and water. The form of pill is objection- 
able, from the difficulty with which it is dissolved in the gastric 
liquors. 

Aqua Camphors (Camphor Water). Dose, f§j (containing 
about gr. iij) to f§ij or iij. The spirit is used chiefly as an 
embrocation, but it may be given internally, where the action 
of the alcohol- is not objectionable, in the dose of gtt. v to foj. 

Linimentum Camphors (Liniment of Camphor) consists 



ETHEREAL ANESTHETICS. 99 

of camphor (1 part) dissolved in olive oil (4 parts) : a mild 
embrocation. 

Ceratum Camphors: is also officinal. 

Linlmentum Saponis [Soap Liniment) is made by digest- 
ing soap and camphor with oil of rosemary in alcohol and 
water. It is a yellow oleaginous liquid, and is used as an 
anodyne and gently rubefacient application in gouty and 
rheumatic pains, sprains, bruises, etc. 

Oleum Camphorje (Oil of Camphor), the volatile oil ob- 
tained from Camphora officinarum, is a light reddish-brown 
fluid, with the odour and taste of camphor. It has medicinal 
properties similar to those of camphor, but is more stimulant, 
and therefore especially adapted to affections of the stomach 
and bowels. Dose 2 or 3 drops. It is used also externally. 

A substance termed Monobromated Camphor is prepared by 
letting fall a stream of bromine upon powdered camphor till 
the latter is liquefied, then boiling the mixture in a water bath, 
and afterwards dissolving in alcohol and crystallizing. It oc- 
curs in long colourless, acicular crystals (C 10 H 15 OBr), having 
an odour of camphor and turpentine and a slightly bitter taste, 
insoluble in water, but soluble in alcohol, fixed and volatile oils, 
ether, carbon bisulphide, and chloroform. It is a substitution 
compound, one atom of bromine taking the place of one atom 
of hydrogen in ordinary camphor. It has been used in de- 
lirium tremens and hysterical and convulsive affections ; dose 
for an adult, 5 grains, repeated. 

ORDER II. — ETHEREAL ANESTHETICS. 

The term Anaesthetics (from a, non, and alaO^a^, sensation), 
properly speaking, includes all agents which diminish sensibil- 
ity and relieve pain. It has, however, been used to denominate 
a class of ethereal remedies which are applied by inhalation, 
and produce such a condition of temporary insensibility as to 
prevent pain during surgical operations and parturition. 

The vapours usually employed to produce anaesthesia are 
those of ether and chloroform. Many otner substances 
have, however, lately been introduced as anaesthetics. 



100 MATERIA MEDICA — ANESTHETICS. 
ETHER ETHER. 

Ether is prepared by the distillation of alcohol and sulphuric 
acid, and is afterwards rectified by redistillation with solution 
of potassa. For inhalation, however, it is further purified by 
being shaken with water, by which it is freed from alcohol, and 
this, as well as acid contaminations, are afterwards removed 
by the agency of calcium chloride and freshly calcined lime. 
Thus purified, it.is designated as ^Ether Fortior — Stronger 
Ether. 

Although commonly termed sulphuric ether, in allusion to 
the sulphuric acid used in its preparation, yet ether contains 
no sulphuric acid. By the action of the acid upon alcohol, 
ether is formed by the substitution of ethyl (C 2 H 5 ) for one atom 
of hydrogen in alcohol (C 2 H 5 HO). Chemically, ether is ethyl 
oxide, (C 2 H 5 ) 2 0. 

Ether is a transparent, inflammable, colourless liquid, with 
a strong, fragrant odour and a hot, pungent taste. It wholly 
evaporates in the air, so rapidly as to cause a considerable 
degree of cold ; combines with alcohol and chloroform in every 
proportion, and dissolves in ten times its volume of water. 
The sp. gr. of pure ether is 0*713, of stronger ether, 0*728, of 
ordinary officinal ether, 0*750. The boiling point of stronger 
ether is about 98° F. 

Effects and Uses when sivalloived. — When taken into the 
stomach, ether produces a primary stimulant and secondary 
narcotic effect, the stage of excitement being, however, very 
transient. Before the narcotic effects set in, the heart's beats 
are increased, the face is flushed, and the skin becomes moist. 
It has long been employed as an antispasmodic and anodyne 
remedy in asthma, angina pectoris, hysteria, cramp of the 
stomach and bowels, spasm of the gall- ducts, etc.; and, from 
its combined stimulant and antispasmodic virtues, it has been 
found useful in the latter stages of typhus, attended by sub- 
sultus tendinum, etc. As a topical anodyne, ether is a very 
good application in nervous headache and earache ; applied by 
means of an atomizer, it causes local anaesthesia ; it has been 



ETHER. 101 

also applied with advantage in aphthae, stomatitis, diphtheria, 
and other affections of the mouth and throat ; and, from its 
refrigerant effects, it has been used in the reduction of stran- 
gulated hernia, and as a cooling lotion in cerebral affections. 
If evaporation be repressed, when it is applied locally it acts 
as a rubefacient, and may be. employed for counter-irritation. 

Dose, f5ss to f5j, to be increased when habitually used. It 
may be incorporated with water by rubbing it up with sperm- 
aceti, in the proportion of two grains to a nuidrachm of ether, 
or it may be given in capsules of sugared gum. 

Effects and Uses when inhaled. — The first effects of the in- 
halation of ether are a sense of strangulation and cough, from 
its local irritant action. "When the vapour is absorbed into the 
system through the pulmonary surface, the nervous functions 
are successively and progressively affected. The mental fac- 
ulties and volition become first impaired; insensibility and 
unconsciousness rapidly supervene, during which susceptibility 
to pain is lost, and the patient lies in a trance-like sleep, resem- 
bling death. This condition is often preceded by one of excite- 
ment, during which patients sometimes weep, laugh, moan, sing, 
rave, or present pugnacious manifestations. In the beginning 
of etherization, the circulation is accelerated, but it is after- 
wards depressed. The period of full ether-narcosis lasts from 
five to ten minutes, and the patient ordinarily recovers without 
serious inconvenience, although headache, nausea, drowsiness, 
and languor sometimes ensue for a few hours. Occasionally, 
congestion of the brain or lungs, cataleptic rigidity with pro- 
longed insensibility, and, in females, hysterical phenomena, 
ensue after etherization ; but these effects are uncommon, and 
it is believed that death has never followed the use of ether, 
when care has been taken to admit atmospheric air into the 
lungs along with the ether. During the stage of insensibility, 
convulsive twitches or muscular rigidity are occasionally no- 
ticed ; the breathing is sometimes stertorous ; the iris becomes 
fixed ; the pupils are dilated ; the eyeballs are upturned ; and 
the orbicularis palpebrarum does not contract when touched. 
Insensibility to pain in some cases takes place before uncon- 



102 MATERIA MEDICA — ANESTHETICS. 

sciousness ; and when patients are recovering from the latter 
state, the mental faculties are often completely restored, while 
insensibility to pain continues. A brief period of anaesthesia, 
lasting less than a minute, has been noticed to occur before 
complete insensibility, which may be taken advantage of for 
short operations. When ether-narcosis is fully established, the 
functions of the nerve centres are involved in the following 
order, viz., the cerebrum, the sensory centres of the cord, the 
motor centres of the cord, the sensory centres of the medulla 
oblongata, and lastly the motor centres of the medulla oblong- 
ata. The functions which continue to act are those presiding 
over circulation and respiration. 

Since the year 1846, the inhalation of ether, first resorted 
to in our own country, has been practiced very generally in all 
parts of the world, with the greatest success, for the prevention 
of pain in surgical operations ; and its use has been also 
extended with the happiest results to the relief of pain in 
labour. 

It should not be exhibited where disease of the heart or 
brain, or serious obstruction of the lungs, exists, or when from 
any cause there is unusual tendency to syncope, and precaution 
should be taken to guard against asphyxia ; but when adminis- 
tered with proper care and discrimination, it is attended with 
little or no danger or unpleasant results of any kind. 

The quantity of ether necessary to effect etherization is 
about two ounces ; and it may be conveniently applied by 
means of a cone of stiff paper, shaped so that its base will fit 
over the nose and mouth of the patient, and into which a nap- 
kin or small towel, or hollowed-out sponge, is placed ; the sponge 
should be first soaked in warm water, squeezed dry, and satu- 
rated with pure ether. It is then applied to the mouth and 
nostrils, the mouth being permitted occasionally to receive 
atmospheric air ; and, if irritability of the air-passages occur, 
this is to be gradually overcome. From three to five minutes 
are required to produce anaesthezation, and its occurrence is 
known by the closure of the eyelids (if they have been previ- 
ously open), failure to respond to questfons, and muscular 



m CHLOROFORM. 103 

relaxation. The sponge is then to be removed, and may be 
reapplied from time to time if necessary. 

Etherization is less apt to produce nausea if practiced upon 
an empty stomach, and the administration of a little brandy 
and laudanum promotes its action. 

Etherization has been also resorted to in a variety of morbid 
conditions in which the administration of narcotics and anti- 
spasmodics has been found useful. It exerts a powerful control 
over the violent types of spasmodic disease, and has been pre- 
scribed with the greatest advantage in hysteria, tetanus, poison- 
ing from strychnia, asthma, chorea, convulsions, puerperal 
eclampsia, whooping-cough, dysmenorrhoea, and almost every 
description of spasm ; and as a relaxant in the diagnosis and 
reduction of dislocations. 

Local anaesthesia and congelation may be produced through 
the agency of the ether spray applied to a part by the atomizer. 
(See p. 48.) 

CHLOROFORMUM — CHLOROFORM. 

Chloroform is usually obtained from the distillation of alco- 
hol with chlorinated lime, and for medicinal use, 

Commercial Chloroform [Qliloroformum. Venale) is puri- 
fied by agitation with one-fifth of its weight of sulphuric acid, 
which destroys the contamination of chlorinated pyrogenous oil; 
and the sulphurous acid formed and the water present are after- 
wards removed by means of a watery solution of sodium car- 
bonate and of stronger alcohol and lime. The purest chloro- 
form for internal use is now made from chloral hydrate. 

Purified Chloroform (Qliloroformum Purificatwii) is a 
colourless, volatile liquid, of a bland, ethereal odour and a hot, 
aromatic, saccharine taste. It is not inflammable, is slightly 
soluble in water, and freely soluble in alcohol and ether. It 
has extensive solvent powers, dissolving camphor, the fixed and 
volatile oils, most resins and fats, iodine, bromine, the organic 
alkalies, etc. The purest chloroform has a sp. gr. of 1*5022. 
Officinal chloroform has a sp. gr. of 1*480, when it contains a 
little alcohol; and as usually found its sp. gr. is about 1*475, 



101 MATERIA MEDICA — ANESTHETICS. 

when it contains more alcohol, and is less apt to become acid. 
The boiling point of pure chloroform is 142° F. It is chemi- 
cally classed with the triatomic haloid ethers, and is methenyl 
chloride, (CHC1 3 ). Chloroform is sometimes contaminated with 
chlorinated pyrogenous oil (a very injurious impurity) ; this 
may be detected and removed by strong sulphuric acid, which 
gives the chloroform a colour varying from yellowish to reddish- 
brown, according to the amount of impurity. The most deli- 
cate test for the presence of alcohol is the binitro-sulphuret of 
iron, which, when agitated with chloroform, will produce a 
brown tint if alcohol be present. 

Physiological Effects. — The effects of chloroform on the sys- 
tem are analogous to those of ether, but much more rapid and 
powerful. When inhaled, in the dose of a fluidrachm or more, 
it rapidly induces anaesthetic sleep, with great relaxation of the 
muscles, and the most complete insensibility to painful agents. 
The period at which insensibility occurs varies from fifteen 
seconds to two minutes ; and it continues usually between five 
and ten minutes, and may be prolonged considerably by re- 
newals of the inhalation. The patient usually recovers without 
recollection of what has occurred during the state of insensi- 
bility, and with few or no uncomfortable sequelae. Sensibility 
to pain is often very much obliterated even before consciousness 
is lost. 

The administration of chloroform has in some cases been at- 
tended with fatal syncope, due to heart-paralysis. This has 
ordinarily occurred with such rapidity as to render remedial 
interference unavailable ; but at the slightest approach of 
symptoms of the kind, the patient should be placed in a re- 
cumbent position, cold affusions should be applied, and, above 
all, artificial respiration, together with electro-magnetism, should 
be resorted to. 

Topically applied, and when its evaporation is prevented, 
chloroform acts as an irritant, and soon vesicates the skin — 
powerfully diminishing painful impressions during its applica- 
tion. 

Medicinal Uses. — Chloroform is prescribed by the stomach 



CHLOROFORM. 105 

as an anodyne and antispasmodic, in all cases to which ether 
is applicable, and has the advantage of a more agreeable taste. It 
has been found particularly useful to relieve the pain and vomiting 
of cancer of the stomach, and also in colic and cholera. It has 
been also extolled as an antiperiodic in the treatment of inter- 
mittent fevers. Externally it is used as a topical anodyne, and 
also as a stimulating application to foul and indolent ulcers, 
and occasionally for its constitutional effects. The editor has 
used the deep injection of chloroform, gr. x-xx, in sciatica with 
good results, the injection being made over the nerve. 

Dose, from TT[xv to f5ss, in sweetened water or mucilage ; 
to be repeated. As an anti-neuralgic liniment, f5j to f§ij of 
camphor liniment ; or as a rubefacient and anodyne, undiluted, 
on linen, covered with oiled silk to 'prevent evaporation. As 
a wash or gargle, foj or ij to water Oj. 

The introduction of chloroform as an anaesthetic took place 
shortly after that of ether ; and from its greater intensity of 
action, its freedom from irritating effect on the bronchial mu- 
cous membrane, its more agreeable odour, and its non-inflam- 
mability, it has been extensively used, particularly in Great 
Britain, to the exclusion of ether. A very considerable num- 
ber of fatal cases have, however, occurred from the inhalation 
of this agent, where its administration did not appear in any 
way counter-indicated ; and it cannot be considered a perfectly 
safe remedy. It is employed as an anaesthetic, anodyne, and 
antispasmodic, to fulfil the indications to which ether is appli- 
cable ; but, except in cases where the inflammability of ether 
makes it objectionable, chloroform should be avoided. It is also 
used hypodermically. 

The dose for inhalation is a fluidrachm, to be repeated in two 
minutes if anaesthesia be not produced ; and its effects may be 
renewed from time to time without injury. It may be applied 
on a handkerchief, held near the nose or mouth, care being 
taken to allow a proper admixture of atmospheric air. 

A solution of chloroform in ether has been used in the United 
States, but, from the unequal volatilization of the two liquids, 
it must be difficult to modify their effects by combination. 



106 MATERIA MEDICA — ANAESTHETICS. 

Spiritus Chloroformi {Spirit of Chloroform) is a solution 
of chloroform in diluted alcohol ; a convenient form for inter- 
nal exhibition. Dose, f5j. 

Linimentum Chloroformi [Liniment of Chloroform) is made 
by mixing 3 parts of chloroform with 4 parts of olive oil. 

Mistura Chloroformi [Mixture of Chloroform) is made by 
mixing chloroform, in which camphor is dissolved, with 5vi 
of water, by the intervention of the yolk of an egg. Dose, 
fgss-fgj.* 

Since the discovery of the anaesthetic properties of ether and 
chloioform, many other substances have been employed for the 
purpose of anaesthesia. Of these may be mentioned — 

I. Rhigolene, a petroleum naphtha obtained by the dis- 
tillation of petroleum. If is the lightest of all known liquids, 
having a sp. gr. 0*625, is highly volatile and inflammable, boils 
at 70° F., and in its composition is a hydrocarbon, containing 
no oxygen. It is nearly odourless, and has been employed to 
produce local anaesthesia through the agency of the atomizer, 
and is the most convenient, most rapid, and most easily con- 
trolled freezing liquid that can be used. Its name is derived 
from piyoQ, extreme cold. 

II. Methylene Bichloride. — This liquid (known also as 
dichloromethane) is most easily procured by the action of 
nascent hydrogen (developed from zinc, water, and sulphuric 
acid) upon chloroform. Its composition is CH 2 C1 2 . It is a 
colourless fluid, having a pleasant ethereal odour like that of 
chloroform, boils at 88° F., has sp. gr. 1*34, and mixes with 
ether and chloroform in all proportions. The vapour of meth- 
ylene bichloride is pronounced by Mr. Spencer Wells to be the 

* Under the name of chlorodyne, a combination containing chloroform is 
much used, for which the following is a formula: Muriate of morphia, 8 
grains ; oil of peppermint, 16 minims ; stronger ether, a fluidounce ; extract 
of liquorice, 1\ troyounces ; pure chloroform, stronger alcohol, and molas- 
ses, each, 4 fluidounces ; diluted hydrocyanic acid, 2 fluidounces ; syrup, 
Yl\ fluidounces : dissolve the morphia and oil in the alcohol, and add the 
chloroform and ether, mix the liquorice, syrup and molasses, shake the two 
mixtures, and add the hydrocyanic acid ; dose, 5 to 10 minims, the vial to 
be well shaken. 



COMPOUNDS OF AMYL. 107 

best known anaesthetic. Given properly diluted with air, in 
his hands (in an experience of more than a thousand cases) it 
has proved of uniform certainty and rapidity of effect, and free 
from any dangerous symptoms. It is used in about the same 
dose as chloroform, but has not been much employed in the 
United States. 

III. Methylic Ether, made by digesting methylic alcohol 
with strong sulphuric acid, is a gaseous substance, lately em- 
ployed. Under the name of methyl- ethylie ether, it has been 
used, dissolved in ethylie ether, and is said to produce rapid 
anaesthesia, without spasm, syncope, or asphyxia, during inhala- 
tion, or subsequent nausea One or two drachms may be intro- 
duced into a bag inhaler, and the gas is volatilized by means 
of a hand bellows. 

IV. Compounds of Amyl. — Various compounds of amyl 
(C 5 H n ), products derivable from the oxidation of starchy mat- 
ter, have been proposed as anaesthetics. Amylic alcohol, or 
fusel oil (amyl hydrate, C 5 H n HO), is one of the products of 
the alcoholic fermentation. It is a colourless, oily liquid, of a 
strong, offensive odour and an acrid, burning taste. When 
inhaled by animals, it has been found to produce muscular 
paralysis and convulsions. Recently amyl nitrite has come 
into use as a -therapeutic agent. Amyl nitrite is prepared by 
heating one part of strong nitric acid with two parts of recti- 
fied fusel oil until reaction just commences, when the fire is 
withdrawn. After the violent reaction has subsided, heat is 
again carefully applied. The distillate obtained below 212° F. 
is. rectified over potassium carbonate, with the precaution to col- 
lect only that portion distilling between 202° and 206° F. It 
is an amber-coloured, volatile, inflammable liquid, of sp. gr. 
0*913, boiling at 182° F., with an odour and taste like that of 
ripe pears. Its composition is C 5 Ii n N0 2 . It is not a true 
anaesthetic, as it does not destroy consciousness unless a con- 
dition approaching death is produced. 

Effects and Uses. — The following effects are caused by the 
inhalation of amyl nitrite : flushing of the head, face, and 
oppression of the head, with vertigo, excited cardiac action. 



108 MATERIA MEDICA — ANESTHETICS. 

diminished blood pressure, marked dilatation of the arterial 
system, due to paresis of their muscular walls, lowering of tem- 
perature, retarded respiratory movements, which tend to become 
slower as the administration is pushed, and eventually are ex- 
tinguished from a paralyzing influence on the respiratory centre ; 
at the same time there is complete motor paralysis. The violent 
action of the heart, it has been proved, is due to depression of the 
cardiac inhibitory nerves. On the reflex function and spinal mo- 
tor centres, amyl nitrite acts as a powerful paralyzer. It also 
lessens the functional activity of the muscles and nerves (H. C. 
Wood). Dilatation of the vessels of the retina has been ob- 
served by the ophthalmoscope. Amyl nitrite has the property 
of diminishing the oxidizing function of the red corpuscles, 
uniting with them to form a new compound, nitrite oxyhaemo- 
globin, and obtained as such by the investigator, Gamgee. 
Diabetic urine has been noticed in the rabbit under hypodermic 
injection of amyl nitrite. It has been employed to rouse the 
system in cases of syncope and prostration, as an antidote in 
chloroform-poisoning, and has been also found efficacious in re- 
lieving the pain of angina pectoris, in asthma, eclampsia partu- 
rientium, and many other convulsive diseases. The inhalation 
of the vapour of the nitrite has been found efficacious in 
arresting epileptic spasm, when its approach is indicated by the 
aura epileptica ; and also in tetanus, nausea marina, and strych- 
nia-poisoning. Dose, 5 to 10 drops; this amount may be in- 
haled dropped on a piece of cotton, or from a small open vial 
introduced into the nostril. 

Y. Carbon Tetrachloride (CC1 4 ). This liquid, when in- 
haled by man, produces loss of consciousness and anaesthesia, 
with great debility of the heart. On account of its deleterious 
influence upon the circulation it is not a safe anaesthetic agent. 

VI. Nitrous Oxide Gas was the substance by which an- 
aesthesia was in the first instance produced, in the hands of 
Mr. Horace Wells, a dentist of Hartford, Connecticut. It 
is made by the decomposition "of ammonium nitrate by heat. 
Its composition is N 2 0. It is a colourless, respirable gas, 
absorbable by water, and the solution, like the gas itself, has a 



ANTISPASMODICS. 109 

faint, agreeable odour and sweet taste. This gas is both a 
pleasant and efficient anaesthetic, more rapid and at the same 
time more transitory in its action than either ether or chlor- 
oform, and free from disagreeable or serious consequences. 
During unconsciousness it causes considerable mental excite- 
ment, shown in various ways, as laughing, crying, etc., and 
lividity of the face. It is well adapted to employment in the 
extraction of teeth, or in short minor surgical operations, but 
its effects are too transient for the anaesthesia required in 
protracted operations. The amount necessary to produce an- 
aesthesia (one or two gallons), as well as the complicated 
apparatus required for its administration, constitute also an 
objection to its general use. It is best administered from an 
India-rubber bag, containing about eight gallons of the gas, 
furnished with a mouth-piece with two valves, one of which is 
designed for the throwing out of the respired gas. Water, im- 
pregnated with about five times its volume of nitrous oxide, 
has been used internally as a stimulant, in the dose of half a 
pint to a pint and a half during the course of the day. In 
experiments upon dogs, nitrous oxide water injected into the 
bowels has been found to act as a physiological antidote in 
cases of poisoning from chloroform, carbonic acid, hydrocyanic 
acid, and other agents. 

ORDER III. — ANTISPASMODICS. 

Antispasmodics are medicines that allay irregular nervous 
action. Their effects upon the economy in a state of health 
are not very decided, and are limited to a slight stimulation of 
the circulation and exhilaration of the mental faculties. Their 
influence is, however, strikingly shown in certain deranged 
conditions of the nervous system, particularly in those forms 
of spasm which depend upon idiopathic or primary nervous 
disorder, and are known under the designation of hysteria. 
They are also useful in many Varieties of mental disturbance, 
as wakefulness, hypochondriasis, and even insanity, and are 
often preferable to narcotics in the treatment of these cases, 



110 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISPASMODICS. 

from their comparative freedom of action on the brain. They 
are all distinguished by a powerful odour. 



ASAF03TIDA — ASAFETIDA. 

Asafetida is a gum-resinous exudation obtained from the 
root of Narthex asafoetida (Wat. Ord. Umbelliferse), and is 
derived from Southern Persia and Afghanistan. The plant 
has a long tapering root, the size of a man's leg, and an erect 
stem, from six to nine feet in height, rising from the midst of 
the leaves. It is thought by some botanists that the plant, 
from which Persian asafetida is obtained is Scorodosma foeti- 
dum. The drug is obtained from incisions made into the root, 
or by taking successive slices of it. The exuded juice is scraped 
off, hardened in the sun, and afterwards packed for exportation. 
It occurs in masses of varying size, consistence, and colour, but 
is usually whitish, intermixed with darker spots, and becomes 
reddish, and finally brown, by exposure to the air. It is some- 
times soft and adhesive, at other times hard and brittle, and is 
not readily pow T dered except at a low temperature. It breaks 
with a waxy lustre, and the best samples appear to be composed 
of irregularly-shaped tears. Its taste is unpleasant, bitter, and 
acrid ; its odour powerful, alliaceous, and fetid. 

Asafetida is a gum-resin united to an alliaceous volatile oil. 
The gum is dissolved by water, and the mucilage thus formed 
suspends the resin and volatile oil. The resin and volatile oil 
are soluble in alcohol ; but the tincture becomes milky on the 
addition of water, owing to the separation of the resin. The 
resin contains ferulaic acid (C 10 H 10 O 4 ) and umbelliferone 
(C 9 H 6 3 ). 

Physiological Effects. — Asafetida, when taken into the 
stomach, produces a local stimulant and carminative effect. 
After absorption, it proves a moderate excitant and exhilarant, 
and exerts a marked influence upon morbid conditions of the 
nervous system. Large doses Cause nausea and vomiting. It 
also stimulates the mucous secretions generally, and increases 
the peristaltic action of the bowels, inducing soft, offensive 



GALBANUM. Ill 

stools. Its volatile oil is absorbed, and the odorous principle 
is recognized in the secretions, especially in the perspiration. 

Medicinal Uses. — No medicine is more highly esteemed as 
a direct antispasmodic than asafetida. It is much resorted to 
in the various forms of hysteria, and is particularly valuable 
in relieving the mental depression which constitutes one of the 
protean types of this disorder. In other spasmodic diseases, 
as chorea, asthma, whooping-cough, etc., it is a favorite remedy 
with many practitioners ; and, from its combined expectorant 
and antispasmodic properties, it is particularly adapted to spas- 
modic pectoral affections. In certain diseases of the abdominal 
viscera, as flatulent colic and costiveness, asafetida is often 
useful as an antispasmodic and laxative enema. It is also pre- 
scribed as a stimulating emmenagogue when the uterine disor- 
der is attended with a disturbance of the nervous functions. 

Notwithstanding its disagreeable odour, this drug is largely 
used as a condiment in Asia; and even in the refined cookery 
of Europe its flavour is admired. Many persons take it habit- 
ually for its exhilarant effects ; and, when used as a medicine, 
it generally becomes acceptable. 

Administration. — Dose, gr. v to 3j, in pill. It is most fre- 
quently given in the form of mixture (mistura asafoetidte, — 
oij to water Oss) — dose, f §ss to f 5j, repeated, or as an enema, 
fgij to f 5iv. The mixture, from its whiteness and opacity, is 
sometimes called lac asafcetidce, or milk of asafetida. Pills of 
asafetida are officinal, each pill containing 3 grains of the 
gum-resin. The tincture (§iv to alcohol Oij — dose foj) is a 
good preparation, where the alcohol is not objectionable. A 
plaster is used externally in whooping-cough and catarrh ; it 
contains galbanum. Suppositories of asafetida are made by 
mixing with the tincture oil of theobroma. 

GALBANUM. 

Galbanum is a gum-resin obtained from Ferula galbaniflua 
and other species of Ferula {Nat. Ord. Umbelliferse), which 
grows in Persia. It is met with in the form of tears, or more 



112 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISPASMODICS. 

commonly in lumps, of a brownish colour, and has a peculiar 
balsamic odour and a hot, bitter, acrid taste. It is a gum- 
resin united to a volatile oil. From the resin are obtained 
umbelliferone and resorein. Its effects are similar to those of 
asafetida, but less active ; and it is chiefly employed externally, 
for its rubefacient properties, as a stimulant. The compound 
pills of galbanum are used as antispasmodic and emmenagogue ; 
they contain galbanum, myrrh, and asafetida, with a little 
syrup — dose, 3 to 5 pills. Galbanum forms the basis of the 
compound galbanum plaster, which contains galbanum, turpen- 
tine, Burgundy pitch, and lead plaster. 

AMMONIACUM — AMMONIAC. 

This is a spontaneous gum-resinous exudation obtained 
from Dorema ammoniacum [Nat. Ord. Umbelliferae), a plant 
of Persia. It comes in tears or lumps, of an irregular shape, 
yellowish on the outside, whitish within, is moderately hard 
and brittle, and has an unpleasant, bitter, and rather acrid 
taste, with a peculiar smell, somewhat like that of galbanum. 
It is a gum-resin, with a little volatile oil, the latter free from 
sulphur. Resorein, but no umbelliferone, is obtained from the 
resin. Its effects are similar to those of asafetida ; but it is 
seldom used except as an antispasmodic expectorant in chronic 
catarrh. Dose, gr. x to xxx. A mixture and plaster are 
officinal. The mixture has the same formula as mixture of 
asafetida; the plaster is made with ammoniac and acetic acid. 
A plaster of ammoniac with mercury is also officinal. 

VALERIANA — VALERIAN. 

Valeriana officinalis, or Wild Valerian (JSfat. Ord. Valerian- 
acese), is a perennial European plant, growing to the height of 
three or four feet. The root is the portion used, and consists 
of numerous long, slender, cylindrical fibres, attached to a 
rough, yellowish-brown, tuberculated head. When powdered, 



VALERIAN. 113 

it is yellowish-gray. It lias a peculiar, powerful odour, of 
which cats are fond, and a bitterish, sub-acrid, aromatic taste. 
Water and alcohol extract its virtues, which' depend on the 
presence of a volatile oil, from which a colourless volatile acid, 
called valerianic, may be separated. This is generated in the 
oil by exposure. 

Effects and Uses. — The effect of valerian on the nervous 
system is not constant, for it is sometimes excitant and again 
calming. Tl'e hypodermic injection of valerian oil reduces the 
reflex excitability of the spinal cord, and antagonizes in frogs 
the tetanic spasms of strychnia. In medicinal doses, valerian 
improves digestion and appetite. Large doses occasion eruc- 
tations, colic and diarrhoea, excitement of the circulation, dia- 
phoresis, and increased urinary flow. It is much used as a 
nervous excitant and antispasmodic in the various forms of 
hysteria, and occasionally, also, in epilepsy, chorea, hemicrania, 
hypochondriasis, delirium tremens, etc. 

Dose of the powder, from 5ss to 5jss, three or four times a 
day ; of the infusion (oss to Oj of water), f §j to ij ; of the 
tincture (f§iv to diluted alcohol Oij), f 5j ; of the ammoniated 
tincture (f 5iv to aromatic spirit of ammonia Oij— an excellent 
preparation), f 5j to ij ; of the fluid extract, f 5j ; of the ex- 
tract (alcoholic), gr. x to xxx ; of the oil, 4 or 5 drops. 

Acidum Valerianicum (Valerianic Acid), (HC 5 H 9 2 ), 
which is found in valerian root, is usually prepared artificially 
by the action of bichromate of potassium and sulphuric acid 
upon amylic alcohol, and occurs as an oily, colourless liquid, 
of a caustic taste and strong odour, resembling, but different 
from, that of valerian. It is used for the manufacture of 

Ammonii Valerianas ( Valerianate of Ammonium). — This 
salt, made by combining valerianic acid with ammonia, occurs 
in snow-white quadrangular plates, of an offensive odour like 
that of valerianic acid, and a sharp, sweetish taste. It deli- 
quesces in a moist air, effloresces in a dry one, and is very 
soluble in both water and alcohol. Potassa and the mineral 
acids decompose it. It is much employed in neuralgia, nerv- 
ous headache, hysteria, chorea, epilepsy, etc. Dose, gr. ij-viij, 
8 



114 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISPASMODICS. 

given in coated pills ; or an elixir, prepared with aromatics,* 
may be used. 

CYPRIPEDIUM. 

The root of Cypripedium pubescens and of Cypripedium 
parviflorum (Nat. Ord. Orchidaceag), common indigenous plants, 
known under the names of ladies' slipper and moccasin plant, 
are recognized by the U. S. Pharmacopoeia. 

The dried root is several inches long, bent, with a small 
knotted, dark head, and numerous fibres of yellowish-brown 
colour. It contains a volatile oil, volatile acid, and resin, and 
has been used as a substitute for valerian. Dose of the powdered 
root, gr. xv, three times a day. An infusion and tincture are 
also used ; by precipitating the tincture with water, an oleoresin 
is obtained, of which the dose is half a grain to three grains. 

SCUTELLARIA — SKULLCAP. 

The herb of Scutellaria lateriflora (Nat. Ord. Labiatse), an 
indigenous perennial herb, found in moist localities, growing to 
the height of one or two feet, is considered by many American 
practitioners to possess valuable antispasmodic qualities. An 
infusion (Sij to boiling water Oj) may be taken ad libitum ; and 
a fluid extract is also used. S. pilosoa and integrifolia have a 
more bitter taste, and have been used as tonics. 

DRACONTIUM — SKUNK-CABBAGE. 

Dracontium foetidum, Ictodes foetidus, Symplocarpus foetidus, 
or Skunk-Cabbage (Nat. Ord. Aracese), is an indigenous plant, 
growing in moist situations. The fresh root has a strong, fetid 
odour and an acrid taste. It contains fat, resin, gum, etc.; 
the acrid principle has not been isolated. It is stimulant, anti- 
spasmodic, and narcotic, and is employed in hysteria, asthma, 
chorea, chronic catarrh, etc. Dose, gr. x to xx, gradually in- 
creased. It is also given in the form of infusion. The leaves 

* Take of valerianate of ammonium, gi ; fluid extract of ranilla, f^ss ; 
cd. tinct. of cardamom, f^vi ; curacoa, fgij ; water, f^iv; mix. Dose, a 
teaspoonful three times a day. 



COFFEE. 115 

are used in the country to keep up the discharge from blistered 
surfaces, and to stimulate indolent ulcers. 

The following vegetable substances, used as articles of diet, 
may be ranked also with antispasmodics : 

I. Thea — Tea, the dried leaves of Thea sinensis {Nat. Ord. 
Ternstromiacese), an evergreen shrub of China and Japan, 
whence the markets of the world are supplied. The most im- 
portant constituents of tea are essential oil (upon which the 
flavour depends), tannic acid, an alkaloid termed theina, and 
boheic acid. 

II. Caffea — -Coffee, the seed of Coffea Arabica (Nat. 
Ord. Rubiacese), a small tree which is a native of southern 
Arabia and Abyssinia, and is cultivated in various tropical and 
semi-tropical countries. Coffee contains an alkaloid, caff etna 
(C 8 H 10 N 4 O 2 ), methy-theobromine, which is identical with theina, 
and two peculiar principles, one resembling tannin, termed 
caffeo-tannic acid, and the other termed caffeic acid. The 
volatile oil, upon which the flavour depends, is developed by 
roasting. Coffee may be used for the general indications of 
antipasmodics, and is, besides, especially efficacious in relieving 
the sopor produced by opium-poisoning. Both tea and coffee 
lessen the urea in the urine. Coffee is relaxing, while tea is as- 
tringent, since it contains tannin. Caffeina (gr. J-iij) produces 
decided cerebral effects, as excitement, wakefulness, and halluci- 
nation, and, when exhaustion sets in, sopor. It increases the 
number of the heart's beats, raises the arterial pressure, followed 
by feeble action and diminished blood pressure. In frogs the 
motor and probably the sensory nerves are not affected by it. In- 
jected into dogs and cats, it produces tetanus (Aubert). Applied 
to a cut-out muscle it causes rigidity (coagulates the myosin) 
and abolishes the electrical contractility. Caffeina elevates 
and then lowers the animal temperature, and has decided diu- 
retic powers (Gubler). Grains 8 to 12, in man, have caused 
decided, cerebral effects, but no deaths have followed its use. 
Caffeina has been used as a cerebral stimulant in nervous head- 
ache (gr. j-ij), in cardiac dropsy (gr. v), and to antagonize 



116 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISPASMODICS. 

morphia narcotism. Caffeina citrate is the salt most in use. 
Caffeina valerianate is useful in hysterical vomiting, in the 
dose of 1 to 2 grains repeated. 

III. Theobroma — Chocolate (noticed more at length under 
the head of demulcents — see Oil of Theobroma) — contains a 
nitrogenous principle, theobromia, nearly identical in composi- 
tion with caffeina (C 7 H 8 N 4 2 ). 

IV. Erythroxylon Coca — Coca or Cuca (Nat. Ord. 
Erythroxylaceae). — The leaves of this plant have long been 
used as a masticatory by the Indians in Peru for the purpose 
of enabling them to undergo fatigue, hunger, and thirst. An 
alkaloid termed eoeaiana (C 17 H 21 N0 4 ) has been found in cocoa, 
also coeatannic acid. The most interesting effects of coca in 
man are, cerebral stimulation, lessening of the feeling of fa- 
tigue, the ability to remain for a long time without food, in- 
creased cardiac action and elevation of temperature. Coca 
lessens the excretion of urea, and is eliminated by the kidneys. 
Large doses cause muscular weakness, drowsiness and tinnitus 
aurium (Ott). Coca has been but little used in medicine, though 
its use is indicated in diseases requiring the checking of tissue 
waste, as phthisis. The fluid extract is the best preparation ; 
dose, f5ss-ij. 

V. Paullinia — Guarana. — This occurs in chocolate-col- 
ored cylinders, which are worked up from the fruit of Paullina 
sorbilis (Nat. Ord. Sapindacese), a plant of Brazil, where 
it is used to make a common and highly-esteemed beverage. It 
contains more caffeina than any other vegetable substance, and 
also a variety of tannic acid. It is recommended medicinally, 
as a tonic, astringent, and antispasmodic, and has been found 
especially useful in sick headache ; dose, one or two drachms, 
or an alcoholic extract may be given in doses of ten or twenty 
grains. A tincture and fluid extract can be used. 

VI. Mate. — Under this name the dried leaves of Ilex 
Paraguaiensis, a shrub of Paraguay, are extensively used 
in preparing a beverage throughout that region of country. 
Paraguay tea, as it is termed, has a balsamic odour and bitter 
taste, and contains a principle identical with caffeina and theina, 
and also tannic acid. 



MUSK. 117 

MOSCHUS — MUSK. 
Class, Mammalia; Order, Ruminantia. 

Musk is a peculiar concrete secretion" obtained from Mos- 
chus moschiferus, the Musk Deer, an animal rather larger than 
the goat, and resembling the deer in its characters, which in- 
habits the mountainous portions of central Asia. The musk 
bag is found only in the male, and lies between the umbilicus 
and prepuce. It is an oval pod, about two and a half inches 
long and one and a half broad, flat on one side and convex 
and hairy on the other, and in a full-grown animal contains 
from 5jss to 5vj of a liquid secretion, which, when dried, is 
musk. Two kinds are known in commerce, the China and the 
Russia musk, the former of which is much the stronger. 

Musk occurs in grains or lumps concreted together, of a red- 
dish-brown colour, and has usually some hairs of the pod mixed 
with it. It has a powerful, diffusive, aromatic odour and a 
bitterish taste. It is inflammable, leaving a light spongy char- 
coal. On analysis, it yields ammonia, fat, cholesterin, gelatinous 
and albuminous principles, but the odorous principle . has not 
been isolated. It is partially soluble in water and alcohol, and 
completely so in ether. 

Owing to its high price, musk is greatly sophisticated. 
Sometimes artificial pods are met with, which may be distin- 
guished from the genuine by the absence of the remains of the 
penis, and of an aperture in the middle of the hairy coat. The 
musk itself is more frequently adulterated by mixture with 
dried blood and a variety of substances. Indeed, little if any 
genuine musk is found in the shops. 

Effects and Uses. — Musk is a powerful excitant and anti- 
spasmodic, without much effect on the cerebral functions. If a 
pure article could be obtained, it would have no superior as a 
direct antispasmodic in the treatment of essential nervous dis- 
orders — hysteria, epilepsy, chorea and hiccough — and as a com- 
bined excitant and antispasmodic in the latter stages of typhus, 
and in typhoid pneumonia. But it is now little prescribed, 
owing to the difficulty of procuring it good. 



118 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISPASMODICS. 

Administration. — It may be given in the form of bolus or 
emulsion. Dose, gr. x, to be repeated every two or three 
hours. A tincture is officinal ; dose, f5i. 

An article termed Artificial Musk is made by the ad- 
dition of one part of rectified oil of amber to three parts of 
nitric acid. It resembles musk both in sensible and medicinal 
properties, and it has been prescribed in its stead, in the same 
dose. 

. OLEUM SUCCINI — OIL OF AMBER. 

Amber, Succinum, derived from an extinct coniferous tree, 
Pinitis succinifer, is a fossil resin found in various parts of the 
world, and comes to this country from the shores of the Baltic. 
It is a hard, brittle substance, usually translucent, and of a 
pale golden-yellow colour, insipid and inodorous except when 
heated. By distillation it yields an oil, OIL OF amber (oleum 
suecini), which, when rectified, is employed medicinally. The 
oil is nearly colourless at first, but gradually becomes brown, 
has a strong, peculiar odour and a pungent, acrid taste. It 
is soluble in alcohol. An acid called succinic is also obtained 
from amber. 

^Effects and Uses. — Topically,' it is an active rubefacient. 
Oil of amber is excitant and antispasmodic, and has been used 
in hysteria, epilepsy, tetanus, pertussis, hiccough, and amen- 
orrhoea. It is chiefly employed as an external application, 
and is a good remedy in pertussis and convulsions of children. 
Dose of the oil, gtt. v to gtt. xv, given in emulsion. For ex- 
ternal use it may be mixed with three or four parts of olive 
oil and brandy, with one part of laudanum added. 



OLEUM jETHEREUM — ETHEREAL OIL. 

This substance, known also as oil of wine, is a result of the 
distillation of alcohol with a large excess of sulphuric acid ; it 
is afterwards mixed with an equal volume of stronger ether. 
It is a transparent, nearly colourless, volatile liquid, of a 



TONICS. 119 

peculiar aromatic, ethereal odour and sharp, bitter taste, 
sparingly soluble in water, but readily dissolved by alcohol or 
ether. Sp. gr. 0.91. It has antispasmodic properties, but is 
used in medicine only as an ingredient of the compound spirit 
of ether. 



SPIRITUS ^THBRIS COMPOSITUS — COMPOUND 
SPIRIT OF ETHER. 

This preparation, known as Hoffman s Anodyne, is a solu- 
tion of ethereal oil (f5vj) in ether (Oss) and alcohol (Oj). It 
is a colourless, volatile, inflammable liquid, having an aro- 
matic, ethereal odour and a burning, slightly sweetish, taste. 
It becomes milky on being mixed with water, owing to the pre- 
cipitation of the ethereal oil. 

Effects and Uses. — Hoffman's Anodyne has the antispas- 
modic and stimulant effects -of ether, and derives additional 
tranquilizing and anodyne properties from the ethereal oil 
present ; it is also an efficient carminative. It is much used 
in hysteria, and is often added to laudanum to prevent the 
nausea which the latter sometimes excites. Dose, f5j to f5ij, 
in sweetened water. 

ORDER IV. — TONICS. 

Tonics, called also corroborants, are medicines which produce 
a gradual and permanent increase of nervous vigour. It is only, 
however, in certain conditions of disease that they manifest this 
invigorating influence ; as, in state of health, they often act 
as irritants or even nauseants. Their local effects are similar 
to their general effects. They exalt the nervous functions of 
the parts to which they are applied, and increase their firmness 
and density. "When taken into the stomach they produce a 
twofold corroborant effect, improving the digestive powers by 
their local action, and strengthening the system generally by 
their cerebro-spinal influence. 

Tonics differ from stimulants only in the more permanent 



120 MATERIA MEDICA — TONICS. 

character of their effects. The more powerful tonics are 
closely allied to the narcotics in their action, producing, in 
overdoses, giddiness, loss of sight and of hearing, convulsions, 
delirium, and even death. And this analogy is further illus- 
trated by the curative power of tonics in the relief of painful 
and spasmodic diseases, as neuralgia, rheumatism, chorea, and 
epilepsy. 

The articles of this class may be divided into vegetable and 
mineral tonics. The vegetable tonics are characterized by 
bitterness ; and it is said that they owe their bitterness and 
medicinal activity to a principle which has been termed bitter 
extractive. It is doubtful, however, whether any such proxi- 
mate principle has really been obtained. The mineral tonics 
unite astringent with tonic properties ; and the preparations of 
iron produce a further corroborant effect by increasing the red 
colouring matter of the blood. 

The therapeutic application of tonics comprises a diversified 
range of diseases. They are employed as stomachics in dys- 
pepsia, and as general corroborants in convalescence from acute 
diseases, in chronic affections accompanied by marasmus and 
cachexia, in exhaustion and debility, in typhus and gangrene, 
and in typhoid conditions of the system generally. But their 
most striking and valuable powers are shown in their febrifuge 
influence upon miasmatic diseases. The modus operandi here 
is obscure, but the curative agency is undoubtedly due to a 
powerful impression upon the central organs of the nervous 
system. The antineuralgic and antispasmodic properties of 
tonics have already been alluded to. They also enjoy consider- 
able reputation in the treatment of chronic bowel-complaints, 
where they act by restoring tone to the debilitated intestinal 
tube ; and, on the other hand, they are often useful as laxatives 
in torpid conditions of the alimentary canal. 

VEGETABLE TONICS. 

The vegetable tonics may be arranged into three sections, 
viz. : 1. The pure bitters. 2. The aromatic bitters, which 



QUASSIA. 121 

contain a stimulant volatile oil, and are aromatic as well as 
tonic. 3. The astringent bitters, which contain tannic and 
gallic acids, and are both astringent and tonic ; this group 
contains cinchona, the most powerful and important of the 
vegetable tonics. The bitter principle is also found in many 
medicines belonging to other classes, as rhubarb, aloes, taraxa- 
cum, etc., and gives them tonic properties. 



SIMPLE BITTEES. 
, QUASSIA. 

Quassia is the WOOD of Simaruba excelsa {Nat. Orel. Simaru- 
bacese), a lofty tree of Jamaica and other West India islands. 
It is imported from the West Indies in billets of various sizes, 
which are found in the shops in the form of chips or raspings. 
It has no odour, but an intensely permanently bitter taste. 
Water and alcohol extract its virtues, which depend on a 
neutral principle termed quassin (C 10 H 12 O 3 ). 

The article originally known as quassia was the root and 
wood of Quassia amara, a shrub of Surinam, but this does not 
now reach our markets. It is thought to have possessed much 
more decided tonic properties than the drug now found in com- 
merce. 

Effects and Uses. — Quassia is a mild tonic, free from irri- 
tant or astringent effects, and is employed principally in dys- 
pepsia, want of appetite, and other stomachic aifections. It is 
much used to give additional bitterness to malt liquors. Dose, 
in powder, Sj to 5j> three or four times a day; but the best 
form of administration is that of infusion (5\j in water Oj), in 
doses of f ojss to f Siij ; the infusion is a good remedy for asca- 
rides, given by injection. An extract (aqueous) is given in the 
dose of gr. v, but it is principally used as an excipient for the 
administration of the mineral tonics. A fluid extract is also 
officinal. Of the tincture (Sij to diluted alcohol Oij) the dose 
is f5j to f5ij. 



122 



MATERIA MEDICA — TONICS. 



COPTIS — GOLDTHREAD. 

Coptis trifolia, or Goldthread (Nat. Ord. Ranunculacese), is 
a small evergreen, herbaceous plant, resembling the strawberry- 
vine, with perennial creeping roots, slender stems, round ter- 
nate leaves, and a single small white flower. It belongs to the 
northern regions of America and Asia, and abounds in swampy 
places in Canada and New England. The parts used are the 

Fig. 10. 




ROOTS, which should be gathered in autumn and carefully dried. 
They are of a bright-golden colour, and give the name by which 
the plant is commonly known. They contain the alkaloids ber- 
berina and coptina, but no tannin. The roots of a variety of 
coptis, derived from Assam, in Asia, Coptis teeta, have been 
introduced into Europe; they possess analogous properties to 
those of C. trifolia. 

Effects and Uses. — Goldthread is a pure and powerful bitter, 
similar in its effects to quassia, but much more palatable, and 



GENTIAN. 123 

is a very good stomachic tonic. It is also employed in New 
England as a topical application in aphthous and other ulcera- 
tions of the mouth. It is usually given in the form of tincture 
(Sj to diluted alcohol Oj), in the dose of foj, and of infusion 
(oss to water Oj). Coptis is not, however, officinal. 



GENTIANA — GENTIAN. 

Gentian is the root of Gentiana lutea or Yellow Gentian 
(Nat. Ord. Gentianacese), a perennial plant of the mountainous 
parts of central and southern Europe, growing to the height 
of two or three feet, with broad, ovate, opposite leaves and 
handsome whorled yellow flowers. It is imported in cylindri- 
cal, branched, twisted pieces, of various sizes, marked by trans- 
verse annular wrinkles and longitudinal furrows. Its odour in 
the fresh state is peculiar and disagreeable, but, when dried, 
feeble; its taste is slightly sweetish and intensely bitter. Water 
and alcohol extract its virtues. It contains & fixed oil, an acid 
(gentisin or gentisic acid, C 14 H 10 O 5 ), pectin, grape sugar, and 
a bitter principle termed gentiopicrin (C 20 H 30 O 12 ), a glucoside, 
which is soluble in water and alcohol. Other species of gentian 
are employed as substitutes for the yellow gentian. The root 
contains no tannic matters (Maisch). 

Effects and Uses. — Gentian is a pure bitter, without either 
astringency or much aroma. In full doses it is more disposed 
to relax the bowels than the other simple bitters ; and, like 
others of the vegetable tonics, in excessive doses it is capable 
of producing narcotic effects. It is an admirable stomachic in 
dyspepsia and gastric disorders, and is also used in the various 
forms of constitutional debility. 

Administration. — In the form of powder, the dose is gr. x to 
5ss. Compound tincture (tinctura Gentianae composita, gen- 
tian, §ij, bitter orange-peel, oj, cardamom, §ss, to diluted 
alcohol Oij), in the dose of f 3j to f5ij ; extract (aqueous), in 
the dose of gr. x to 5ss ; and fluid extract, in the dose of 
f5ss-j. 



124 



MATERIA MEDICA — TONICS. 



FRASEEA — AMERICAN COLUMBO. 

The root of Frasera walteri (Nat. Ord. Gentian aceae), an 
elegant plant of our southern and western States, may be used 
as a substitute for gentian and columbo. It contains the same 
active constituents as gentian, viz., gentiopicrin and gentisic 
acid. Dose, 5ss-5j j or an infusion (§j to boiling water Oj) 
may be given. It is not officinal. 



sabbatia. 

Sabbatia angularis, American Centaury, or Centaury (Nat. 
Ord. Gentianaceae), is a very common annual indigenous plant, 

Fig. 11. 




with an erect stem one to two feet high, opposite ovate leaves, 
and numerous terminal flowers of a rich rose-colour, nearly 



COLUMBO. 1-5 

white in the centre. The herb should be gathered while in 
flower. It is not officinal. It has a very bitter taste, and 
yields its virtues to both water and alcohol. It contains a 
bitter principle, and erythrocentaurin (C 27 H 24 8 ). 

Effects and Uses. — Centaury is a pure bitter, with no as- 
tringency and very little aroma. It is an excellent stomachic, 
and may be used also as a general corroborant. It is said to 
act as an emmenagogue when given in warm infusion, and, like 
the bitters generally, has had anthelmintic properties ascribed 
to it. The best form of exhibiting it is infusion (§j to boiling 
water Oj), of which the dose is a wineglassful when cool ; of 
the powder 5ss to 5j may be given. 

CALUMBA — COLUMBO. 

Columbo is now generally ascribed by botanists to two spe- 
cies of plants known as Jateorrhiza palmata and Jateorrhiza 
Calumba (Nat. Ord. Menispermacese), designated by some 
writers still under the old name of cocculus palmatus, climb- 
ing plants of Mozambique, on the southeastern coast of Africa. 
The ROOT is the officinal portion, and is known in Africa under 
the name of Qalumb. It consists of fleshy tubers, with numer- 
ous offsets, which are the portions used, the main root being 
too fibrous. They are found in the shops in round pieces about 
a quarter of an inch thick, externally of a brown, wrinkled 
appearance, and internally yellow. The odour is slightly aro- 
matic, and the taste very bitter. Owing to the starch which is 
found in columbo, it is liable to be worm-eaten. It contains, 
besides a large proportion of starch, two bitter principles, 
eolombin (C 42 H 44 14 ) and berberina (C 20 H 17 NO 4 ), Columbia acid 
(CyH^Oy), but no tannin. Water and alcohol take up its vir- 
tues ; and, from its liability to attract moisture from the air, 
it should not be kept in the form of powder. 

Effects and Uses. — Columbo is a very agreeable demulcent 
tonic, particularly acceptable to the stomach, and hence well 
adapted to the convalescent stages of acute disorders of the 
bowels and of fevers. It is also a good preparation in the 



126 MATERIA MEDICA — TONICS. 

sickness of pregnant women, and is one of the best of the 
stomachics in all cases where there is unusual delicacy of the 
stomach. In its native country it is much employed in the 
treatment of dysentery. 

Administration. — The dose of the powder is gr. x to gr. 
xxx. It is best given in the form of infusion (§ss to boiling 
water Oj, dose, fSj to f^ij), which should be used at once, as 
it is liable to spoil. Of the tincture (Siv to diluted alcohol Oiij), 
f5j to f5iv may be given. Of the fluid extract (a fluidounce 
of which contains a troyounce), the dose is f5ss-i. Columbo 
is often combined with aromatics, iron, and alkalies, and is 
sometimes added to purgative mixtures. 

Berberina (C 20 H 17 NO 4 ), the alkaloid found in columbo, is 
widely diffused in the vegetable kingdom, and is obtained from 
numerous plants of the natural orders Berber acew, Menisper- 
macece, and Banunculacece, as barberry, yellow-root, hydrastis, 
goldthread, and others. It has been employed, in the form of 
muriate and sulphate, as a tonic and febrifuge, in doses of from 
one to ten grains. 

C HIE AT A. 

The herb and root of Agathotes chirata (Nat. Ord. Gen- 
tianaceae), an East Indian plant, have been introduced into 
European and American practice under the name of Chirata, 
where it now ranks among the best simple bitters. Chirata 
contains a peculiar bitter neutral substance (a glucoside), 
termed chiratin (C 26 H 48 15 ), and opelic acid (C 13 H 20 O 10 ), which 
is amorphous ; in medicinal properties it resembles gentian, 
and may be used in the same way. 



AROMATIC BITTERS. 

SERPENTAKIA. 

The root of several species of Aristolochia are known under 
the name of Virginia Snakeroot. The most familiar is A. ser- 



SERPEXTARIA. 



127 



pentaria (Nat. Ord. Aristolochiacese), an herbaceous, indigenous 
plant, with a perennial root, composed of numerous slender 
fibres, arising from a knotty, brown head. A. reticulata is a 
variety found in the southwestern States. 

Virginia snakeroot is found in the shops in tufts of long, 
slender, matted fibres attached to a knotty, rugged head. 



Fie. 12. 




They are brittle, and of a yellowish-brown colour. The odour 
is aromatic and agreeable ; the taste somewhat pungent, bitter 
and aromatic. Water and alcohol extract its virtues, which 
depend on the presence of a volatile oil, a bitter 'principle, re- 
sins, and tannin. The roots of A. reticulata are very com- 
monly substituted for those of A. serpentaria, from which they 



128 MATERIA MEDICA — TONICS. 

differ only in the larger size of their fibres. They are quite 
equal to the latter, and are thought even to contain a larger 
proportion of volatile oil. 

Effects and Uses. — Virginia snakeroot is a combined stimu- 
lant and tonic, with diuretic or diaphoretic properties, accord- 
ing to the mode of its administration. In full doses it irritates 
the alimentary canal, causing nausea, eructations, and colic. 
It is much used in the latter stages of fevers, and in other 
acute diseases, and is frequently combined with Peruvian bark 
in the treatment of intermittents. It may be administered in 
infusion (not officinal, §ss to boiling water Oj), dose fSj to f Sij, 
repeated. Of the tincture (Siv to diluted alcohol Oij) the dose 
is f5j to f5ij ; of the fluid extract, f5ss-f5j. Huxhams Tinc- 
ture contains serpentaria. 



ANTHEMIS — CHAMOMILE. 

Anthemis nobilis, or Chamomile {Nat. Ord. Compositse), is a 
small herbaceous, trailing European plant, cultivated exten- 
sively in both Europe and this country. The flowers are 
described by the U. S. Pharmacopoeia as the portion used, but 
the entire heads are really the commercial article. The 
flowers consist of small spheroids, with convex yellow disks 
and numerous white, spreading rays. In Europe the single 
heads are preferred, as the aromatic properties reside in the 
disks ; but in this country the cultivated double heads, which 
are not inferior in tonic virtues, are used. Chamomile flowers 
have a bitter, aromatic taste, probably due to anthemic acid, 
and a strong, peculiar odour, both of which are imparted to 
water and alcohol. They contain a volatile oil, bitter principle, 
a little tannic acid, oxesin, but no alkaloid has been obtained. 

Effects and Uses. — Chamomile, in small doses, is a mild, 
agreeable, aromatic tonic, and, in large doses, acts as an 
emetic. The cold infusion is much employed as a stomachic, 
and the hot infusion is given to aid the operation of emetics. 
The flowers, boiled in water, form a good fomentation to in- 



THOROUGHWORT. 129 

flamed parts. The usual for"m of administration is the infu- 
sion (5ss to water Oj). Dose, as a stomachic, fgij, two or 
three times a day, cold ; as an emetic, hot, ad libitum. 

Cotula (Mayweed). Anthemis (or Maruta) cotula, Wild 
Chamomile, or Mayweed (Nat. Ord. Compositse), an herbaceous 
plant, indigenous in Europe, but extensively naturalized in the 
United States, resembles chamomile very closely, both in bo- 
tanical characters and in properties, and is used as a substitute 
for it in domestic practice. It contains volatile oil, valerianic 
acid, tannin, anthenaidina (?), and anthemic acid (?). It is not 
officinal. 

Matricaria (German Chamomile). The flowers of Mat- 
ricaria chamomilla (Nat. Ord. Compositae), an annual European 
plant, possess properties very similar to those of chamomile. 
They contain volatile oil, bitter extractive, tannin, and malates. 
They are not much employed in this country. 

EUPATORIUM — THOROUGHWORT. 

Eupatorium perfoliatum, Boneset, or Thoroughwort (Nat. 
Ord. Composite), is a very common indigenous plant, growing 
in wet grounds in every part of the United States. It has 
numerous herbaceous stems, with long, narrow leaves, per- 
forated by the stems. The leaves and tops are the officinal 
portion. They have a faint odour, a strongly bitter taste, are 
soluble in water or alcohol, and contain a bitter principle, eujpa- 
torin, a glucoside, gum, tannic acid, and a trace of volatile oil. 
E. teucrifolium, E. aromaticum, and other native species, are 
almost identical in their properties with E. perfoliatum. 

Effects and Uses. — Thoroughwort is a stimulant tonic, dia- 
phoretic and expectorant, and in large doses proves emetic and 
laxative. It is a good stomachic in dyspepsia, and, from its 
combined corroborant, expectorant, and diaphoretic properties, 
is an excellent remedy in epidemic influenza, and in the latter 
stages of pneumonia and bronchitis. It is used also with good 
effect in rheumatism, and in intermittent, remittent, and typhoid 



130 



MATERTA MEDICA — TONICS. 



fevers, and taeniacide powers have been attributed to it. It 
should be given in infusion (Sj to boiling water Oj), fgij of 




which may be taken cold, as a stomachic, three or four times a 
day, and in freer warm draughts as a diaphoretic. 
^he fluid extract is officinal; dose f5i. 



ABSINTHIUM — WORMWOOD. 

The tops and leaves of Artemisia Absinthium, or Worm- 
wood (Nat. Ord. Composite), a European plant, naturalized in 
New England, are ranked among the aromatic bitters, but are 
not now much employed. They may be given in infusion (Sj 
to boiling water Oj — not officinal). 

Wormwood contains an essential oil (chiefly absinthal), a 
bitter principle termed absinthin (C 40 H 58 O 9 ), tannin, etc. The 
oil possesses powerful stimulant properties, in large doses pro- 



ANGUSTURA. 131 

ducing epileptiform convulsions, and in lethal quantities is 
capable of causing fatal results. A liqueur termed absinthe, 
containing the oil in question, is much used in France, with 
highly pernicious effects. It enters into the composition of 
vinum aromaticum. 

MAGNOLIA. 

The barks of Magnolia glauca, Magnolia acuminata, and 
Magnolia tripetala (Nat. Ord. Magnoliacese), indigenous trees, 
remarkable for the beauty of their foliage and the size and 
fragrance of their flowers, are officinal, and rank with the aro- 
matic bitters. The barks of the trunk, branches, and root, are 
alike officinal ; but those of the last are the most active. They 
contain a volatile oil, tannin, resin, and a crystallizable bitter 
principle resembling liriodendrin. An extract of the fruit of 
M. umbrella yields magnolin. The aromatic property is impaired 
by drying, and is lost when the barks are long kept. 

They are used as gentle stimulant tonics and diaphoretics, in 
the low stages of fever, rheumatism, etc. An infusion may be 
given, but the best solvent is diluted alcohol. 

LIRIODENDRON — TULIP-TREE BARK. 

The bark of Liriodendron tulipifera, the Tulip-tree or 
American Poplar (Nat Oral. Magnoliacese), the well-known 
pride of the American forest, remarkable for its size, foliage, 
and beautiful tulip-shaped flowers, closely resembles those of 
magnolia in its medicinal properties, but is less aromatic and 
more stimulant. It contains a principle termed liriodendrin 
(in globules or needles), and tannin. It may be given in powder, 
in the dose of 3j to 5ij ; and in infusion, decoction, and tinc- 
ture. It is not officinal. 

ANGUSTURA. 

Angustura bark is derived from Galipea officinalis (Nat. 
Ord. Rutaceae), a small tree of the district of the country bor- 



132 MATERIA MEDICA — TONICS. 

dering on the Orinoco river, in South America. It occurs in 
pieces of various lengths and sizes ; sometimes flat, sometimes 
slightly curved, but rarely entirely quilled. It has a disagree- 
able smell and a bitter, aromatic, somewhat pungent taste. It 
imparts its virtues to water and alcohol, and contains a volatile 
oil and a bitter principle termed cusparin, but tannin appears 
to be absent. An alkaloid, angosturine, is believed to have 
been isolated. The bark of Strychnos nux vomica has been 
sometimes mixed with Angustura bark, and is thence known 
as false angustura bark. 

Effects and Uses. — Angustura bark is a stimulant tonic, and 
in large doses acts on the stomach and bow r els. From its lia- 
bility to adulteration with the bark of Strychnos nux vomica, 
it has fallen into disuse, and it has no superiority over serpen- 
taria and others of the indigenous aromatic bitters. Dose, in 
powder, gr. x to 5ss ; of the infusion (5ss to boiling water Oj), 
foij? repeated. Augustura is not officinal. 

CASCARILLA. 

This is the bark of Croton eluteria [Nat. Ord. Euphor- 
biacese), a small tree of the Bahamas and other West India 
islands. It occurs sometimes in the form of small thin frag- 
ments ; sometimes in that of rolled pieces, one or two inches 
long, occasionally longer, and varying in size from that of a 
quill to that of the little finger. It has a warm, spicy, and 
bitter taste and an aromatic, agreeable odour, which is par- 
ticularly fragrant when it is burned. It yields its properties to 
alcohol, and partially to w T ater ; and contains volatile oil, resin, 
a bitter crystalline principle called cascarillin, and some tannin. 

Effects and Uses. — Cascarilla is a very pleasant aromatic 
bitter, causing neither vomiting nor purging, and hence agree- 
ing very well with the stomach. It may be given in powder, 
in the dose of 3j to 5ss ; but this is a less agreeable form than 
the infusion (§i to boiling water Oj). Dose foij. 



CINCHONA. 133 

CANBLLA. 

This is the bark of Canella alba [Nat, Ord. Canellaceae), a 
large tree of the West Indies and South America. It comes 
in quilled pieces of a whitish-yellow colour, or in flat frag- 
ments which are thicker and darker. It has an aromatic 
odour and a warm, pungent, aromatic, and somewhat bitter 
taste. It imparts its virtues to alcohol, and partially to water ; 
and contains volatile oil (contains engenic acid), cannellin 
(mannite), resin, a hitter principle (not isolated), gum, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — An aromatic tonic, little employed ex- 
cept in combination. Pulvis aloes et canellce (powder of 
aloes and canella), popularly known as hiera picra, consists 
of aloes four parts, canella, one part ; dose, gr. x to 3j. It 
is not officinal. 

ACHILLEA YARROW. 

Achillea millefolium, Milfoil, or Yarrow (Nat. Ord. Com- 
posite Senecionidese), a perennial herb, possesses mild stimu- 
lant tonic properties, with some astringency. It contains a 
volatile oil, achillein (C 20 H 38 N 2 O l5 ), an amorphous alkaloid, tan- 
nin, and aconitic acid. The leaves and flowering tops are 
the portion to be employed. Of the infusion (gj to Oj) a 
wine-glassful or more may be given. The volatile oil has been 
used in the dose of 20 or 30 drops. Achillea is not officinal. 

ASTRINGENT BITTERS. 
CINCHONA. 

The name Cinchona (derived from the Countess of Chin- 
chon, w T ife of a viceroy of Peru) is applied to the bark of dif- 
ferent species of Cinchona (Nat. Ord. Rubiacese, Cinchonee), 
large trees which grow in the mountainous regions of the west- 
ern portions of South America, from the nineteenth degree of 
south latitude to about the tenth degree of north latitude. 
Three principal varieties of cinchona are known in commerce: 



134 MATERIA MEDICA — TONICS. 

Cinchona Flava {Yellow Bark), called in commerce Calisaya 
Bark, derived from Cinchona calisaya ; Cinchona Pallida 
[Pale Bark), called in commerce Loxa and Lima Bark, de r 
rived from Cinchona condaminea and Cinchona micrantha ; 
and Cinchona Rubra [Red Bark), derived from Cinchona 
succiruhra. The Pharmacopoeia now recognizes, however, as 
officinal the barks of all species of the genus Cinchona, which 
contain at least three per cent, of the proper cinchona alkaloids. 
The latest authorities distribute the Cinchona into five groups, 
the types of which are C. officinalis, C. rugosa, C. micrantha, 
C. calisaya, and C. ovata. 

Cinchona is brought to the United States from the Pacific 
ports of South America. It is obtained by stripping the 
trunks and branches of the Cinchona trees during the dry 
season, and is dried by exposure to the sun, during which pro- 
cess the smaller pieces usually become quilled. 

1. The Yellow or Calisaya Bark comes both in quilled and 
flat pieces. The former are from three or four inches to a foot 
and a half long, from a quarter of an inch to two or three 
inches in diameter, and of variable thickness. They have a 
brownish epidermis (with longitudinal wrinkles and transverse 
fissures), which possesses none of the virtues of the bark. The 
bark itself is one or two lines thick, compact, of a short, 
fibrous texture, and when broken presents shining points. The 
flat pieces, which are derived from the larger branches and 
trunk, are usually destitute of epidermis, are more roughly 
marked externally, and are of a browner hue than the quilled 
pieces. They are also less compact, less bitter, and of less 
medicinal virtue. The yellow bark is distinguished from the 
other barks by its much more bitter taste ; its comparative 
freedom from astringency; its brownish-yellow, somewhat 
orange colour, which is still brighter in the powder; and by con- 
taining a large proportion of quinia with very little cinchonia. 

2. The Pale Bark comes in cylindrical pieces of variable 
length, sometimes singly, sometimes doubly, quilled, from two 
lines to an inch in diameter, and from half a line to two or 
three lines in thickness — the best kinds being about the size of 



CINCHONA. 



135 



a goose-quill. The exterior surface is rough, marked with 
fissures, and of a grayish colour, owing to adhering lichens. 
The interior surface is of a cinnamon colour, and, in the finer 
sorts, smooth. The colour of the powder is a pale fawn. The 
taste is moderately bitter and somewhat astringent; the odour 
feeble, but rather aromatic in the powder and decoction. The 
pale barks, of which there are two varieties, Loxa Bark and 
Huanuco or Lima Bark, contain a much larger proportion of 
cinchonia than of quinia ; and, from their yielding little quinia, 
have fallen into disuse in the United States. 

3. The Reel Bark usually comes in large, thick, flat pieces ; 
sometimes also in quills from half an inch to two inches in 
diameter. They are covered with a reddish-brown, rugged 
epidermis, beneath which is a dark-red, brittle, and compact 
layer, the interior parts being woody and fibrous and of a 
lively brownish-red colour. The taste of red bark is bitter and 
astringent; its odour not different from that of the other barks; 
its powder is reddish. It contains considerable quantities both 
of quinia and cinchonia. 

Under the name of Cartagena Barks, several common 
varieties of cinchona were long brought to this country from 
the northern Atlantic ports of South America. They were 
of inferior quality, and were therefore not recognized by the 
Pharmacopoeias; but, since the reduced supply and consequent 
high price of the calisaya bark, large quantities of very good 
bark have been imported from New Granada, and are now used 
in the manufacture of quinia, under the name of Colombian 
barks. 

Within a few years, the cultivation of several varieties of 
cinchona trees has been successfully introduced into southern 
India and the islands of Ceylon and Java, and also into 
Jamaica, and the markets are now supplied with barks of very 
good quality from these sources. 

Chemical Constituents. — The most important constituents of 
cinchona are two alkaloid principles, termed quinia and cin- 
chonia, which exist chiefly in combination with an acid called 
kinic. These alkaloids are found in different proportions in 



136 MATERIA MEDIGA — TONICS. 

the different barks, quinia being obtained from the yellow bark 
most abundantly, cinchonia from the pale bark, and the two 
principles in about equal proportion from the red bark. Two 
other valuable alkaloids, quinidia and cinchonidia, are found 
(also as hinates) most abundantly in the pale and Cartagena 
barks, but to a certain extent in all. By heat, the crystalliz- 
able alkaloids are converted into amorphous modifications, as 
quinia into quinicia and cinchonia into cinchonicia ; and re- 
cently other alkaloids, aricina, paricia, quinamia, and paytia, 
have been discovered in cinchona. Other principles found are 
cincho-tannic acid, colouring matter, hinovic acid, starch, fatty 
matter, and a trace of volatile oil. Gum is found in the pale 
bark, but not in the yellow or red bark. 

Quinia is obtained by heating the sulphate with an alkaline 
solution. Quinine Sulphas [Sulphate of Quinia) is prepared 
in the following manner : Powdered yellow bark is boiled in 
water acidulated with muriatic acid, by which the alkaloid is 
separated from its combination with kinic and other acids, to 
form a soluble muriate. By the addition of lime, this salt is 
decomposed, and quinia precipitated. The precipitate is washed 
with distilled water, and is separated from insoluble impurities 
by digestion in boiling alcohol, which is afterwards distilled off. 
To the residual brown viscid mass, mixed with distilled water 
and heated to the boiling point, sulphuric acid is added, in 
quantity sufficient to dissolve the quinia. The liquor is then 
boiled with animal charcoal, filtered, and set aside to crystal- 
lize. The alkaloid quinia may be obtained in the form of fine 
crystalline needles of a silky lustre, but usually occurs as a 
loose white powder ; it is inodorous, very bitter, soluble in 2000 
parts of cold water and in 760 parts of boiling water, in little 
more than its weight of absolute alcohol, in about two parts of 
chloroform, and in 22.6 parts of ether, and also in the fixed 
and volatile oils. It unites with acids to form salts, the most 
important of which is the officinal salt, the sulphate. Its com- 
position is C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 . Quinia and its salts may be distin- 
guished from all other vegetable alkalies and their salts (ex- 
cepting quinidia and quinicia) by forming an emerald-green 



CINCHONA. 137 

precipitate when treated first with fresh chlorine-water and 
then with ammonia (Thalleioquin). Herapatli s test is by 
adding to quinia sulphate (gr. v) diluted acetic acid (f 5'0 with, 
alcohol (f 5ss) and tincture of iodine (8 drops), heating gently 
over a spirit lamp till it forms a clear light-brown solution, when, 
as the liquor cools, right-angled, quadrate, rhombic crystals are 
deposited, which by reflected light appear of a copper-green 
colour, resembling the elytra of Spanish flies. This precipi- 
tate, which is quinia iodosulpbate (C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 SO 4 H 2 I 2 ), is 
termed Herapathite. Cinchonia is a white crystalline substance, 
less bitter than quinia, almost insoluble in cold water, very 
soluble in boiling alcohol, and slightly soluble in ether and the 
fixed and volatile oils. Its composition is O 20 H 24 N 2 O. It is 
distinguishable from quinia by striking a white precipitate when 
chlorine-water and afterwards ammonia are added ; with potas- 
sium ferrocyanide, a yellowish-white precipitate ensues. Cin- 
chonia being insoluble in ether, while quinia is soluble in that 
menstruum, the latter may by this means be readily separated 
from the former alkaloid. The medicinal properties of quinia 
and cinchonia are analogous, and cinchonia sulphate is now 
officinal. Quinidia is isomeric with quinia, but more crystal- 
lizable and less soluble in ether ; its salts strike a white precipi- 
tate with solution of potassium iodide. Ginclionidia is isomeric 
with cinchonia. It is usually found mixed with quinidia, the 
mixture being known as commercial quinidia. The commercial 
quinidia sulphate (which is more soluble in water and alcohol 
than quinia sulphate) may be used as a substitute for the latter 
salt. 

Incompatible 'S. — The alkalies and alkaline earths precipitate 
the alkaline principles of cinchona ; tannic acid, and the tinc- 
ture and compound solution of iodine, form with them insolu- 
ble compounds ; the ferric salts precipitate cincho-tannic acid ; 
solution of potassium arsenite is also incompatible with infu- 
sions and decoctions of cinchona. 

Physiological Effects. — Locally, cinchona and its alkaloids 
act as irritants, and have, besides, a marked antiseptic effect, 
arresting putrefaction and fermentation by a destructive influ- 



138 MATERIA MEDICA — TONICS. 

ence upon fungi and infusoria. As the physiological action of 
cinchona depends on its contained alkaloids (chiefly quinia), the 
following account relates to the latter. Nervous system : quinia 
in medicinal doses stimulates the cerebral functions and in- 
creases the mental activity. Full doses (gr. xv-xx) induce a 
hypersemic condition of the brain, the first indications of which 
are upon the special senses, especially that of hearing, which 
undergoes subjective noises, as ringing and roaring in the ears 
(tinnitus aurium), with partial deafness, the latter rarely per- 
manent; amblyopia is an accompaniment, though less common. 
Doses of this size, continued, may produce a sense of fullness 
of the head, frontal headache and vertigo. Very large doses 
augment the above symptoms, accompanied by a slow weak 
pulse, dilatation of the pupils, convulsions, and stupor ; death 
in rare cases has followed quinia-poisoning, though immense 
doses of it have been taken with impunity. Quinia given to 
frogs reduces, and finally abolishes, the reflex excitability of the 
spinal cord. Its effect in this respect, on man, is as yet sub 
judice. Quinia in doses of gr. x-xx has the power, during 
labour, to cause uterine contractions. Circulation : in small 
doses quinia slightly accelerates the action of the heart ; while 
large amounts (gr. xl-lx) decidedly retard its beats and force. 
This slowing occurs after section of the vagi indicating a direct 
influence on its motor ganglia ; applied in solution to the cut-out 
heart it quickly stops its movements. The cinchona alkaloids 
are readily dissolved from the bark by contact with the gastric 
juice, and being diffusible and crystalline, quickly osmose into 
the blood; if, however, they pass into the small intestine from 
any cause, contact there with the alkaline fluids of that tube 
will precipitate them, and they will be discharged with the 
faeces. Upon the blood, quinia has several marked actions, as 
follows : it diminishes the number of white corpuscles, and re- 
tards their atnaeboid movements ; it hinders the carrying of 
oxygen to the tissues, and increases the proportion of red to 
white corpuscles (Cutler and Bradford). The absorption of 
quinia by the blood is aided by the carbon dioxide gas of that 
fluid. The production of acid in freshly drawn blood is dimin- 



CINCHONA. 139 

ished by the addition of quinia solution (Binz). Temperature : 
in small doses in health no influence upon the animal heat has 
been noted; but in large amounts a moderate fall takes place 
(about J° F.). No complete explanation has as yet been given 
of this action, but it seems to be due to an interference with 
the oxidation processes in every part of the body. Secretions : 
cinchona produces upon the stomach a stimulant effect to the 
appetite and digestion, and, from the tannic acid which it con- 
tains, a slightly astringent effect not belonging to the salts of 
its alkaloids. If given too long, or if the stomach and bowels 
are in an irritable condition, it is apt soon to produce nausea, 
vomiting and even diarrhoea. Occasionally quinia causes a 
cutaneous eruption, as erythema, herpes, etc. A rare effect 
is renal and cystic irritation. Quinia, it is said, causes con- 
traction of the spleen (Piorry) ; this, however, has been denied. 
Large doses of quinia (gr. xxv-xl) decidedly diminish the 
amount of urea and uric acid in the urine, also the phosphoric 
acid. Elimination : quinia for the most part is eliminated by 
the kidneys, and it has been found in the urine twenty minutes 
after the injection of a large dose. According to Thau from 
J to J escapes in the first six hours. It is discharged partly 
as quinia and partly as isomeric modifications (quinicia). 

Medicinal Uses. — The most important therapeutic employ- 
ment of cinchona is as a febrifuge in the treatment of fevers of 
a miasmatic origin. Its efficacy in these diseases was first made 
known to the world by the Jesuit missionaries in Peru, from 
whom it was called Jesuit's powder. The type of miasmatic 
fever in which the powers of bark are most strikingly displayed 
is intermittent, the non-pernicious and uncomplicated forms of 
which it rarely if ever fails to control. It may be given in 
these cases from the very onset of the attack ; and if, owing 
to gastric irritability, it is rejected by the stomach, it should 
be introduced by the rectum. In remittent fevers, cinchona is 
scarcely less useful than in intermittens ; and most physicians 
who practice in miasmatic districts now concur in recommend- 
ing its early exhibition in these fevers, without waiting for a 
remission. In the pernicious or congestive forms of inter- 



140 MATERIA MEDICA — TONICS. 

mittent and remittent fevers, the early administration of large 
doses of cinchona or the salts of quinia or cinchonia, in com- 
bination with stimulants, is imperatively demanded ; and the 
hypodermic injection of quinia sulphate may here be necessary. 
As a prophylactic against miasmatic fever, the use of the prep- 
arations of cinchona is very efficacious. We are still far from' 
an explanation as to the exciting cause of miasmatic fevers or 
the specific action of quinia against them, nor have the recent 
experiments of Klebs and Tommasi-Crudeli with the lacillus 
malarice contributed anything to our knowledge, since they 
have not been confirmed by those of Dr. Sternberg. In ery- 
sipelas, the author has found quinia sulphate scarcely if at all 
less efficient than in miasmatic fevers, and he believes it to be 
the most available remedy in puerperal fever. In typhus 
fever, the quinia salts, in full doses, are generally resorted 
to, in conjunction with the bromides, opium, and alcohol. In 
yellow fever, the declining stages of typhoid fever, the malig- 
nant exanthemata, gangrene, carbuncle, extensive suppurations, 
pyaemia, the typhoid forms of diseases generally, the hectic 
of phthisis, acute rheumatism, diarrhoea, dysentery, and chol- 
era, and various disorders of the nervous system, as neuralgia, 
tetanus, and chorea, cinchona and its preparations are con- 
stantly employed ; and, as they have been found to lessen the 
amount of uric acid and urea in the urine, they have been pre- 
scribed also in gout. By its contracting action on the gravid 
uterus, quinia sulphate exerts an influence in promoting normal 
labour, and will often prove useful in counteracting inertia of 
the uterus in parturition. A full dose of quinia will often 
abort an impending paroxysm of asthma. In surgical shock, 
as after grave operations, the administration of quinia is of the 
greatest utility. The power which the quinia salts possess of 
lowering fever temperature renders their use extremely valuable 
in conditions of pyrexia. In such states quinia is best given 
in a single large dose (5ss to 5i)> and since the elimination of 
the major portion of it takes place in the first six hours, it may 
be necessary to repeat this dose at the expiration of that time, 
if it is desirable to sustain its antipyretic effect. In Germany, 



CINCHONA. 141 

the treatment of typhoid fever with large doses of quinia, gr. 
xx to xl, given in the evening, is in vogue. Cinchona is also 
much used as a stomachic and general tonic, but, where gastric 
susceptibility exists, as in convalescence from acute diseases, 
some of the simple bitters are preferable. Topically, cinchona 
is employed as an astringent and antiseptic. 

Administration. — The use of cinchona in powder, since the 
discovery and introduction of quinia sulphate, has been very 
much abandoned, owing to its bulk and disagreeable taste. 
When exhibited in this form, 5ss to 5i is the dose as a febri- 
fuge, given usually in divided amounts; as a tonic, 5i- The 
following officinal preparations are employed: infusion (51 of 
yellow or red bark to water Oj, to which aromatic sulphuric 
acid f 5j may be added), dose, f§ij, repeated ; extract (of yellow 
bark), dose, gr. x to gr. xxx, equivalent to 5j of bark ; fluid 
extract (yellow), dose, f 5i, equal to 5j of bark ; tincture (5vi of 
yellow bark to a mixture of three measures of alcohol with one 
of water, Oij), dose, f 5j to f 3iv ; compound tincture, or Hux- 
hanis tincture (containing red bark 5iv, bitter orange-peel oiij, 
serpentaria gr. 360, in a mixture of three measures of alcohol 
with one of water, Oijss), dose, f5j to f5iv. In prescribing 
bark, opium or port wine is often given with it, when it acts on 
the bowels. It is also occasionally combined with serpentaria. 
And, when the stomach will not retain it, it has been used ex- 
ternally in the form of cataplasmata, pediluvia, bark jackets, 
etc., though in such cases it may be administered by the rec- 
tum, and the endermic or even the hypodermic exhibition of 
the sulphate of quinia may be resorted to. 

Quinia Sulphas (Sulphate of Quinia). This salt is pre- 
pared by the process described at p. 136. It occurs in fine, 
silky, rather flexible needle-shaped crystals (interlaced among 
one another, or grouped in small star-like tufts), which are 
odourless, very bitter, and slightly efflorescent. It is soluble 
in 755 parts of cold and 30 parts of boiling water, readily 
soluble in alcohol, but insoluble in ether. Quinia is a tertiary 
base, and forms, with sulphuric acid, a basic, normal, and acid 
sulphate. Basic quinia sulphate 2(C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 )SO 4 H 2 + 8 aq. 



142 MATERIA MEDICA — TONICS. 

is the salt in common use. By the addition of dilute 
sulphuric acid to the basic salt normal quinia sulphate 
(C 20 H 24 N 4 O 2 .SO 4 H 2 -f 7 aq.) is obtained in four-sided prisms, 
which are soluble in 11 parts of cold water. Acid quinia 
sulphate (C 20 H 24 N 2 O 2 . u iSO 4 H 2 -f- 7 aq.) occurs as white prisms, 
freely soluble in water. Solutions of quinia and its salts 
possess the property of fluorescence and left rotatory power 
on polarized light. Quinia sulphate is decomposed by the 
alkalies and their carbonates, the alkaline earths, astringent 
infusions, the soluble salts of lead, acetates and tartrates 
generally, potassium iodide, and the compound solution of 
iodine. Various substances are mixed as adulterations with 
quinia sulphate. They may be detected by adverting to their 
relative solubility in different menstrua, as compared with the 
sulphate, or by chemical tests. Thus, gum and starch are left 
behind by alcohol ; salicin becomes red on contact with sul- 
phuric acid, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of sulphate of quinia on -the 
system are the same as those of cinchona, and, from its being 
less apt to disagree with the stomach, it has to a great extent 
superseded the use of the latter. See p. 137. 

Administration. — The ordinary dose of the sulphate of 
quinia, as a febrifuge, is gr. xvi, equal to about oj of bark, 
but as much as twenty grains, and even more, are often re- 
quired ; as a general tonic, gr. j to gr. vj. It may be given 
dissolved in some aromatic water, by the aid of aromatic sul- 
phuric acid, also as an enema, or hypodermically. (Glycerin 
is a good excipient for pills of quinia sulphate.) 

Quinia Bisulphas (Quinia Bisulphate), the normal quinia 
sulphate, is now officinal, and is preferred on account of its 
greater solubility. It may be given in the same doses as the 
ordinary sulphate. 

Many other salts of quinia than the sulphate have been 
introduced into practice, but few possess any advantage over 
these officinal salts. 

Quinia Valerianas (Quinia Valerianate) is obtained by 
dissolving freshly precipitated quinia in diluted valerianic acid. 



CINCHONA. 143 

It occurs in transparent or white rhornboidal tables, of the 
peculiar repulsive odour of valerianic acid, and an acrid, bitter 
taste. Soluble in alcohol and ether, and partially soluble in 
water. It fulfils the indications of quinia and valerianic acid, 
and is therefore especially useful in nervous disorders. Dose, 
r. j to xx. Quinia hydrobr ornate is officinal, and being solu- 
ble in five times its weight of water, is recommended also 
for hypodermic use (Gubler). Quinia hydroclilorate is also 
officinal. 

Quinia sulphovinate, from its ready solubility, dissolving in 
twice its weight of water, is well adapted to hypodermic injec- 
tion. 

Quinia carbolate, citrate, phosphate, salicylate and sulpho- 
carbolate have all been used of late. 

Crude quinia is the impure quinia obtained from the man- 
ufacturer before separation from the insoluble impurities. It 
is a soft solid of resinous aspect, nearly free from bitterness, 
and may be given to children in the same doses as the sulphate. 

Chixoidixum [Chinoidin, quinoidin) is a substance ob- 
tained by precipitation, with an alkaline carbonate, from the 
mother-liquid left after the preparation of quinia sulphate. 
When moderately heated, it appears as a resinous mass, of a 
yellowish-white or brownish colour, which, according to Liebig, 
bears the same relation to ordinary quinia that uncrystallizable 
sugar bears to the crystallizable. The quinia in this prepara- 
tion is thought to be converted, by the action of heat, into an 
isomeric alkaloid termed quinicia ; and by the same action 
cinchonia is converted into an isomeric alkaloid termed cin- 
chonicia. It is considered equally efficacious with quinia, but 
requires doses rather larger than quinia sulphate, than which it 
is much more economical. 

Cinchonia Sulphas {Cinchonia Sulphate) is made from 
the mother-water remaining after the crystallization of quinia 
sulphate. Being the most soluble of the sulphates of the four 
alkaloids found in bark, it remains in solution after the quinia 
sulphate and the mixed cinchonidia and quinidia sulphate have 



144 MATERIA MBDICA — TONICS. 

crystallized out. From the mother-water it is precipitated by 
solution of soda, then washed with alcohol, next reconverted 
into a sulphate, and boiled with animal charcoal to decolorize it. 
It occurs in short, oblique, shining prisms with dihedral sum- 
mits, of a very bitter taste, more soluble in water (54 parts) 
than quinia sulphate, readily soluble by alcohol, and sparingly 
so by ether. It rotates polarized light to the. right. By the 
addition of sulphuric acid it is converted into the more solu- 
ble neutral sulphate. It is now admitted to have the same re- 
medial properties as quinia sulphate, but requires about one- 
third larger doses. Quinidia sulphate and cinehonidia sulphate 
are now officinal. 

EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS. 

The leaves of Eucalyptus globulus (Nat. Ord. Myrtacese), 
a lofty tree of Australia, commonly known as the Blue Gum- 
Tree, have within the last few years come into notice as a febri- 
fuge tonic. The fresh leaves are more active than the dried, 
and they owe their activity to a volatile oil, having the odour of 
oil of peppermint, which contains cymol (C 10 H 14 ) and two ter- 
penes, one, C 10 H 16 (unnamed), and eucalyptol (C 10 H 16 O) ; from 
eucalyptus are also obtained tannin, resin (crystallizable), and 
cerylic alcohol. 

Physiological Action. — The oil possesses a decided destructive 
action upon infusoria, and locally is an irritant. Nervous sys- 
tem : large doses of the oil in animals produce muscular weak- 
ness, loss of reflex irritability, and finally death from centric 
paralysis (cord and medulla). These effects are preceded by a 
period of excitement. In small doses in man it causes mental 
activity and a feeling of well being. The circulation and res- 
piration are both accelerated under eucalyptus. Secretions : 
the injection of the drug excites the salivary secretion, pro- 
motes the appetite, causes diaphoresis, and induces soft stools. 
It decidedly increases the elimination of urea (Gimbert). It 
is eliminated by the bronchial mucous membrane, kidneys and 
skin. 



DOGWOOD. 



145 



Eucalyptus has been given with contradictory results in mias- 
matic fevers, in doses of from 60 grains to half an ounce of the 
dried leaves, or less of the fresh ; the fluid extract is officinal, 
dose f5j, in some aromatic water. Eucalyptol (oleum eucalypti) 
has proved efficient in bronchitis and whooping-cough ; dose, gtt. 
v to x, in capsules or emulsion. Eucalyptus may be used as a 
tonic in gastric catarrh and dyspepsia, and its employment in 
vesical catarrh is recommended. The growth of plantations of 
eucalyptus in miasmatic districts has been found to diminish 
the spread of malaria. 



COKNUS — DOGWOOD. 
Fig. 14. 




Cornus Florida, or Dogwood (Nat, Ord. Cornacese), is an 
indigenous tree found in most parts of the United States, and 
growing in the Middle States to the height of from fifteen to 
10 



146 MATERIA MEDICA — TONluS. 

twenty feet. Its flowers are remarkable for large four-leaved 
white or pinkish involucres, which appear with us in May. 
The officinal portion is the bark of the root. It occurs in 
pieces of various sizes, more or less rolled, and of a reddish- 
gray colour. Its taste is bitter, astringent, and slightly aro- 
matic. It yields its virtues to water and alcohol, and .contains 
cornin (cornic acid), resin, tannic and gallic acids, etc. The 
barks of Cornus sericea, or swamp dogwood, and of Cornus 
circinata, or round-leaved dogwood, possess analogous prop- 
erties. 

Effects and Uses. — Dogwood is deservedly esteemed the best 
substitute for cinchona among the native astringent bitters. 
It is somewhat irritant, and not unfrequently disorders the 
stomach. Dose, in powder, 3j to 5j ; the fluid extract contains 
Si in f Si. 

salix — WILLOW. 

The bark of Salix alba, the White Willow [Nat. Ord. Sal- 
icacese), is ranked among the astringent bitters. It is little 
employed, however, except in the form of salicin, a neutral 
principle (C 13 H 18 O r ), which consists of white, slender, silky 
crystals, inodorous but very bitter, soluble in water and alco- 
hol, but not in ether; it ranks with the glucosides. Salicin is 
now believed to produce the same effects as salicylic acid (see 
that article), and is employed in the same therapeutic range, 
especially in acute rheumatism. It renders the sweat alkaline. 
Dose, 15 to 20 grains, frequently repeated. It has powerful 
anti-septic and anti-fermentative properties ; it is not toxic. 
Salicin is officinal under the name of salicinum. 



PRUNUS VIRGINIAN A — WILD-CHERRY. 

The Wild-cherry has long been known under the name of 
Prunus Virginiana, which is still retained by the Pharmaco- 
poeia. This name, however, belongs to another tree, the choke- 
cherry ; and the wild-cherry is now properly distinguished as 



NECTANDRA. 147 

Cerasus serotina (Nat. Ord. Rosacea). The medicinal portion 
is the bark of the root and trunk, the former of which is the 
more active. It is found in the shops in pieces of various 
lengths and sizes, deprived of the epidermis and slightly 
curved, of a reddish-brown colour and a bitter, slightly as- 
tringent, aromatic taste. 

It contains a bitter principle (not isolated), resin, starch, and 
tannic and gallic acids, and yields on distillation a volatile oil, 
containing hydrocyanic acid, which does not pre-exist in the 
bark, but is formed by the action of water on amygdalin, 
through the agency of an albuminous principle termed emulsin, 
as in the bitter almond. The leaves also yield this oil. Boil- 
ing water impairs the virtues of the bark. 

Effects and Uses. — Wild-cherry bark is tonic, with some 
astringency, and at the same time exercises a sedative influence 
on the nervous and circulatory system, owing to the hydro- 
cyanic acid which is developed in it. It is used with excellent 
effect as a sedative corroborant in various forms of pulmonary 
irritation, particularly in the latter stages of pneumonia and 
in the hectic of phthisis. It is also a useful stomachic and 
tonic in a variety of cases. The proper form of administration 
is the infusion (Sss to cold water Oj), in the dose of f§ij, twice 
or thrice daily. Of the fluid extract (of which a fluidounce 
represents an ounce of the bark), the dose is foj-ij- Of the 
syrup, an agreeable preparation, the dose is f §ss. 



NECTANDRA. 

The bark of Nectandra rodiei (Nat. Ord. Lauracese), the 
Greenheart tree, a large tree of Guiana, has, within a few 
years, been introduced into medicine, under the name bebeeru 
bark. It occurs in large, flat, heavy pieces, of a grayish- 
brown colour on its outer surface and a dark cinnamon on the 
inner. It has an intensely bitter, somewhat astringent taste, 
and contains tannic acid, resin, gum, etc., and three alkaloids, 
which have been isolated, termed bebeeria (C 18 H 21 ISr0 3 ), nectan- 
dria (C 20 H 23 NO 4 ), and sipirina. Bebeeru bark is employed as 



148 MATERIA MEDICA — DIGESTIVE FERMENTS. 

a febrifuge and tonic in South America, and bebeeria sulphate 
has been used in Europe and this country with some success in 
the treatment of intermittent fevers. The full dose is 3j-5j. 
Of bebeeria sulphate, as a tonic, gr. j to iij ; as an antiperiodic, 
gr. v to x. It is completely soluble in water. It is not 
officinal. 

DIGESTIVE FERMENTS. 
PEPSI NUM — PEPSIN. 

In connection with the subject of stomachic tonics, this article 
is entitled to brief mention. It is prepared from the rennets 
either of the calf, sheep, or pig, taken from the animal as soon 
as killed, the best process being Scheffer's. The mucous 
membrane of well-cleaned, fresh hogs' stomachs is scraped off, 
chopped fine, and macerated for several days in water acid- 
ulated with muriatic acid ; the strained and decanted clear 
liquid is mixed with -a saturated solution of sodium chloride in 
water, and the separated pepsin after several hours is drained 
on a muslin strainer, and submitted to strong pressure. Pep- 
sin, the ferment of the gastric juice, has the property, at 100° 
F. in an acid solution, of coagulating and dissolving albuminous 
principles. Two grains of pepsin, with an ounce of distilled 
water and TT|y of hydrochloric acid, will dissolve 100 grs. of 
coagulated white of egg at 98° F. in about four hours. Of 
saccliarated pepsin, grs. 10 are required to dissolve grs. 120 
of coagulated albumen at 100° F. in five or six hours. Since 
alcohol impairs the digestive property of pepsin, preparations 
of it in wine are unreliable.. Acid solutions favor its action, 
especially hydrochloric acid, and it may be combined with this 
acid if deficiency of the gastric juice be suspected. Glycerin 
is the most reliable agent for preserving the ferment of pepsin 
(Liebriech). The alkalies and mineral salts precipitate pepsin 
from solution, and hence are incompatible. Pepsin is now a 
good deal used in dyspepsia and diarrhoea, and may be given 
in doses of 5 to 20 grains after each meal, suspended in syrup 
of orange peel to disguise its disagreeable taste, or taken on 



PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 149 

bread. Of saccharated pepsin, the dose is gr. v to xx ; of 
vinum pepsinse, 5ss-i, an inferior preparation. Liquor pepsini 
is a solution of pepsin (40 parts) in hydrochloric acid (12 
parts), glycerin (400 parts) and water (548 parts). It is prob- 
ably more efficient in cases of children than of adults. When 
nourishment is to be given by the rectum (as when food is re- 
jected by the stomach), the addition of pepsin and a little 
hydrochloric acid to animal broths for rectal injection is highly 
useful. Ingluvin is a preparation from the gizzard of the do- 
mestic fowl ; it is an aid to digestion : dose, gr. v to xv. 

PANCREATINUM — PANCREATIN. 

This is obtained, by Mattison's process, from the pancreas 
of recently-killed animals, which is dissected and macerated in 
water acidulated with hydrochloric acid for about forty-eight 
hours, then separated, and the solution of pancreatin is passed 
through a pulp filter until it is perfectly clear ; to this clear 
solution is then added a saturated solution of sodium chloride, 
and allowed to stand until the pancreatin is separated ; this is 
skimmed off, and placed upon a muslin filter and allowed to 
drain, after which it is washed with a less concentrated solution 
of sodium chloride, and then put under the press ; when all 
the salt solution is removed, and the mass is nearly dry, it is 
rubbed with sugar of milk, and dried without heat, after which 
it is diluted until ten grains emulsify two drachms of cod-liver 
oil. Saccharated pancreatin is employed to promote the di- 
gestion of fatty matters, and may be administered in the form 
of emulsion, or dissolved in diluted alcohol or glycerin, or as a 
powder ; it is a good addition to cod-liver oil. Dose, 5 to 10 
grains. It is not officinal. 

MINERAL TONICS. 
FERRI PR^IPARATA — PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 

The preparations of Iron (Ferrum), termed Ferruginea, 
ChalybeateS) and Martial preparations, are the most important 



150 MATERIA MEDICA — MINERAL TONICS. 

of the mineral tonics. Besides their local tonic-astringent ef- 
fect, and their general corroborant action on the cerebro-spinal 
system, which they possess in common with the other mineral 
tonics, they exercise a restorative influence on the composition 
of the blood, by increasing the number of its colouring parti- 
cles and the amount of its solid constituents. Iron is in fact 
a natural constituent of the blood, and is to be considered as a 
nutrient rather than a medicine. The effects of the chalybeates 
are best observed in conditions of the system in which there is 
a relative want of the red corpuscles of the blood. Under their 
use in such cases, while the digestive functions are promoted, 
the pulse becomes fuller and stronger, the skin assumes a 
healthy tint, the lips and cheeks become more florid, the tem- 
perature of the body is increased, and the muscular strength is 
greatly invigorated. On the other hand, the administration of 
the ferruginous preparations in health, or too long continued, 
produces symptoms of plethora, vascular excitement, and a 
tendency to congestion and hemorrhage ; though it may be 
doubted whether the blood will assimilate more than the nor- 
mal proportion of iron. The iron salts stain the teeth a dark 
colour, and possess an astringent taste. Taken with the food 
they assist the digestive process ; on an empty stomach they 
irritate. As a result of its oxidation in the stomach hydrogen 
is liberated, which combines with sulphur to form hydrogen 
sulphide. 

The red corpuscles of the blood act as carriers of oxygen, 
which they take up from the inspired air in the lungs, and it 
is now believed that the iron in the blood-corpuscles converts 
oxygen into ozone, a more active form of this element. Iron 
is an essential constituent of haemoglobin, and observation has 
proven that a course of iron in anaemia increases the number 
of red corpuscles to double or treble (Robuteau). According 
to Cutler and Bradford this increase does not take place in 
health. The state in which it exists in the blood-corpuscles 
is unknown. Absorption : from the stomach it is thought to 
be absorbed as an albuminate. Metallic iron is oxidized, after 
ingestion, by the help of water. The ferrous oxide and car- 



PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 151 

bonate are rendered soluble by the hydrochloric acid of the 
gastric juice. Salts of the organic acids may be absorbed 
directly into the blood, the acidulous radical being burnt off 
and the basic iron remaining to combine with the red globules. 
Salts of the mineral acids, the nitrate, chloride, and sulphate, 
in doses not large enough to constringe the tissues, are ab- 
sorbed without change. Secretions : the astringent prepara- 
tions of iron lessen the secretions generally, especially the 
gastro-intestinal. The excretion of urea is increased. The 
ferric salts possess more activity than the ferrous. Elimina- 
tion : iron is eliminated by the bile, faeces and urine. The 
faeces are, during a course of iron, of a clavk colour. The 
diseases in which chalybeates are most serviceable are those 
which depend on a deficiency of the red corpuscles of the 
blood, as the various forms of ancemia, particularly where this 
is connected with irregularity of the uterine functions ; also, 
scrofula, tuberculosis, degeneration of the viscera, and cachec- 
tic states of the system, characterized by a pale, flabby con- 
dition of the solids. Many forms of nervous disorders, as 
neuralgia, chorea, hysteria, and epilepsy, are very decidedly 
controlled by the preparations of iron, and they probably con- 
stitute the best remedies in these affections, when attended with 
anaemia. Several of the preparations of iron are also much 
employed both as stomachics and astringents. 

The following are the officinal preparations of iron : 
Ferrum Reductum (Reduced Iron). Metallic iron is ob- 
tained for medicinal purposes in the form of an impalpable 
powder by reducing the ferric hydrate (officinally subcarbon- 
ate) by passing a stream of hydrogen gas over it. It is a light, 
tasteless, iron-gray powder, insoluble in water, but completely 
soluble in diluted sulphuric acid, and it should be kept in a 
well-stoppered bottle, owing to its great liability to oxidation. 
This preparation, sometimes called Quevenne's Iron, is a mild 
chalybeate, and is a favourite prescription with many practition- 
ers in the treatment of chlorosis and other varieties of anaemia. 
Dose, gr. v to gr. x, three times a day, in the form of pill made 
with sugar and gum. It is sometimes prepared with chocolate 



152 MATERIA MEDICA — MINERAL TONICS. 

in the form of lozenges. It is well adapted to prolonged 
use. 

Ferri Oxldtjm Hydratum [Hydrated Oxide of Iron). This 
preparation [ferric hydrate) (Fe 2 6HO) is made by precipitating 
the ferric hydrate from its combination in any ferric salt by 
means of ammonia. Officinally, ferric sulphate is employed 
for this purpose. When dry, it is a reddish-brown powder, 
and is not considered an eligible preparation for medicinal 
use. It is furnished in the form of a freshly-precipitated, 
soft, moist, reddish-brown magma for use as an antidote to 
arsenious acid. 

Ferri Oxidum Hydratum cum Magnesia {Hydrated 
Oxide of Iron with Magnesia). In this preparation ferric 
hydrate is precipitated by means of magnesia, instead of am- 
monia. It is readily prepared, and is used as an antidote to 
arsenious acid. 

Ferri Carbonas Saccharatus [Saccharated Carbonate of 
Iron) [Saccharated Ferrous Carbonate) is obtained by the 
double reaction of ferrous sulphate and sodium bicarbonate, 
and is protected from oxidation by the addition of sugar. It 
is a greenish-gray powder, oxidizing slowly in the air, only 
partially soluble in water, but completely soluble in hydro- 
chloric acid. It is a valuable preparation. Dose, gr. v-xxx. 

Trochisci Ferri [ Troches of Iron) are made with hydrated 
oxide of iron, vanilla, sugar and mucilage of tragacanth ; each 
lozenge contains five grains of the iron. 

Fmplastrum Ferri [Plaster of Iron) is made with hydrated 
oxide of iron, lead plaster, Burgundy pitch, and. Canada tur- 
pentine. 

Massa Ferri Carbonatis [Pill of Iron Carbonate). — 
Vallet's Ferruginous Pill. To protect the ferrous carbonate 
(FeC0 3 ) from oxidation, it is prepared (as in the process last 
described) by dissolving the reacting salts in weak syrup 
instead of water ; honey and sugar being afterwards added to 
preserve it unaltered and bring it to the pilular consistence. 
This preparation is one of the most popular of the chalybeates. 
It contains nearly half its weight of ferrous carbonate. From 



PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 153 

Ive to twenty grains of the pilular mass may be taken in 
divided doses through the day. 

Mistura Ferri Composita (Compound Mixture of Iron) is a 
mixture of ferrous carbonate (prepared by the reaction of 
ferrous sulphate and potassium carbonate) with myrrh, spirit 
of lavender, rose-water, and sugar, to resist oxidation. It is 
a favourite chalybeate in chlorosis and amenorrhoea. Dose, 
foj to foij, three times a day. 

Pilulce Ferri Compositce (Compound Fills of Iron) are pre- 
pared with sodium carbonate and ferrous sulphate with myrrh 
and syrup. Dose, from two to six pills three times a day. 
Both these preparations should be made only as wanted for use. 

Ferri Sulphas (Iron Sulphate), known, in its impure state, 
as green vitriol or copperas, is prepared for medicinal use by 
dissolving iron wire in diluted sulphuric acid, with heat. It is 
ferrous sulphate (FeS0 4 ,7H 2 0), and occurs in transparent, 
pale bluish-green crystals, of the form of, the oblique rhombic 
prism, of an acrid, styptic taste, soluble in water, but insoluble 
in alcohol. By exposure to the air they effloresce, absorb 
oxygen, and become yellowish- white, from the formation of 
ferric sulphate. When heated to 212°, they give out six of 
their seven equivalents of water, and are converted into a 
"grayish-white mass, known as the dried sulphate. The alka- 
lies and alkaline earths and their carbonates, silver nitrate, 
lead acetate, are incompatible with this salt. Iron- sulphate is 
one of the most active of the ferruginous preparations, but its 
local effects are powerfully astringent, and in a concentrated 
form it acts as an irritant poison. It is preferred to other 
chalybeates where there is much relaxation of the solids, with 
excessive discharges ; but it is not so well adapted to long- 
continued use, on account of its local irritant action. Topi- 
cally, it is employed in substance and solution as a styptic and 
astringent. Dose, gr. j to gr. v, in pill ; of the dried sulphate 
(ferri sulphas exsiccatus), gr. ss to gr. iij. Ferrous sulphate is 
also used as a deodorizer, acting by absorbing sulphur com- 
pounds. 

Ferri Sulphas Frcecipitatus (Precipitated Sulphate of Iron) 



154 MATERIA MEDICA — MINERAL TONICS. 

{Precipitated Ferrous Sulphate). In this preparation the 
ferrous sulphate is precipitated from a solution of sulphuric 
acid and water by alcohol. Dose gr. j-v. 

Liquor Ferri Tersulphatis (Solution of Iron Ter sulphate). 
This preparation is made by dissolving ferrous sulphate in a 
mixture of sulphuric and of nitric acid, with water. The nitric 
acid furnishes oxygen, which converts the iron from a ferrous 
to a ferric condition. It is Fe 2 3S0 4 (ferric sulphate). This 
solution is a clear, reddish-brown liquid, nearly devoid of odour, 
and of a sour, very styptic, and somewhat acrid taste. Its 
chief use is in making ferric hydrate, and it should be kept on 
hand for the preparation of the antidote for arsenious acid. It 
may be used as a styptic, but for this purpose it is inferior to 
the next preparation. 

Liquor Ferri Subsulphatis (Solution of Iron Subsulphate). 
This solution, known as MonseVs Solution, is made in the same 
way as the last preparation, except that only half the amount 
of sulphuric acid is used, and an oxysulphate results (Fe 2 (S0 3 ) 3 
+ Fe 2 3 ). It has a syrupy consistence, a ruby-red colour, is 
inodorous, and has a very astringent but not acrid taste. It 
is a less irritant salt than the ferric sulphate, and may be used 
internally, in hemorrhage from the stomach and bowels, in the 
dose of from five to fifteen grains. Externally, it is one of the 
most efficacious styptics we can employ ; and has been injected 
into varicose veins with success for the cure of varicose ulcers, 
and, applied by means of the atomizer, has been found efficient 
in hemoptysis. Diluted with water, it is a good local applica- 
tion to inflamed mucous surfaces. 

Ferri Chloridum (Iron Chloride). This salt, which is 
ferric chloride (Fe 2 Cl 6 ), is made by heating iron wire with 
muriatic acid (by which ferrous chloride is formed), and after- 
wards converting the ferrous chloride into ferric chloride by 
heating it with muriatic and nitric acids. It occurs in frag- 
ments of a crystalline structure, an orange-yellow colour, in- 
odorous, of a strong chalybeate, styptic taste, deliquescent, 
and wholly soluble in water, alcohol, and ether. Internally, 
it is used chiefly in the form of the tincture. Externally, it is 



PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 155 

applied as a styptic, and in solution, of various strengths, as 
an astringent. One part, gradually added to six parts of col- 
lodion, forms a yellowish-red, limpid liquid, of valuable styptic 
properties. 

Liquor Ferri Chloridi (Solution of Iron Chloride) is pre- 
pared by dissolving iron wire in muriatic acid, heating to the 
boiling point, then heating the liquid, after filtration, with 
muriatic acid and nitric acid, and afterwards adding distilled 
water. A reddish-brown liquid, having an acid and strongly 
styptic taste, and sp. gr. 1*405. It may be used internally 
for the purposes of the chloride, in doses of TT[ij-vi, diluted, 
and externally as a styptic. 

Tinctura Ferri Chloridi (Tincture of Iron Chloride) is made 
by mixing one part of solution of iron chloride with two 
parts of alcohol. It is a tincture of the chloride, though there 
is probably some reaction between the acid and alcohol, as the 
preparation has an ethereal odour. It is of a reddish-brown 
colour, and has a sour, styptic taste. It is one of the most 
effective of the chalybeates, acting locally as an energetic 
astringent and styptic, and, in large doses, as an irritant. 
Its indications, both general and topical, are very analogous 
to those of the sulphate, with the addition of some specific 
action on the urino-genital apparatus, which renders it appli- 
cable to the treatment of affections of these organs ; it is 
especially useful in erysipelas. Dose, TT|x to TTJxxx, gradually 
increased to f5j or f5ij, and taken in some mild diluent. 

Mistura Ferri et Ammonii Acetatis (Mixture of Iron 
and Ammonium Acetate) (Bashams Mixture) consists of tinc- 
ture of ferric chloride, diluted acetic acid, solution of ammo- 
nium acetate, elixir of orange, syrup and water. A most ex- 
cellent preparation, and of great benefit in chronic albuminuria 
and in chronic dropsies generally where iron is indicated. 
Dose, §ss-j. 

Ferri Iodidum Saccharatum (Saccharated Iodide of Iron) 
(Saccharated Ferrus Iodide). This salt is made by the addi- 
tion of iron filings to a mixture of iodine in distilled water, 
and sugar of milk is added t© prevent oxidation. By evap- 



156 MATERIA MEDIC A — MINERAL TONICS. 

oration a yellowish-white or grayish powder is obtained, of a 
sweetish, ferruginous taste, deliquescent, and very soluble in 
water. Dose, gr. x-xxx. 

Syrupus Ferri Iodidi {Syrup of Iron Iodide), which is pre- 
pared by mixing iodine and iron wire in distilled water, and 
shaking the mixture until the solution has acquired a green 
colour, adding syrup, heating to 212°, straining, and, when 
the liquid has cooled, adding distilled water. It must be kept 
in well-stoppered two-ounce vials. It is a transparent liquid, 
of a pale-green colour, and furnishes an excellent alterative 
tonic, combining the effects of iodine and of iron, and is par- 
ticularly applicable to the treatment of scrofula, visceral en- 
gorgements, phthisis, etc. Dose, 20 to 40 drops, three times 
a day. 

Pilulce Ferri Iodidi [Pills of Iron Iodide) are made with 
iodine, reduced iron, sugar, gum Arabic, liquorice-root, liquor- 
ice, and an ethereal solution of balsam of tolu. They keep 
very well. Each pill contains about one grain of iron iodide 
and one-fourth of a grain of reduced iron. 

Ferri et Potassii Tartras {Iron and Potassium Tartrate) 
is prepared by the addition of ferric hydrate to a mixture of 
potassium bitartrate in distilled water. It occurs in trans- 
parent scales of a ruby-red colour, which are wholly soluble in 
water. The tartaric acid and potash, in combination in this 
preparation, render it less constipating than the other cha- 
lybeates ; and, from its agreeable taste, it is adapted to the 
diseases of childhood. It is, moreover, not incompatible with 
alkalies. Dose, gr. x to 5ss. 

Ferri Phosphas {Iron Phosphate) is obtained by the double 
reaction of solutions of ferric citrate and sodium phosphate, 
and is ferric phosphate. It occurs in bright-green transparent 
scales, insoluble in alcohol, but soluble in water; by exposure 
to the light it becomes darker. Dose, gr. v to gr. x, in pill. 

Ferri Pyrophosphas {Iron Pyrophosphate) {Ferric Pyro- 
phosphate) (Fe 4 3P 2 7 ,9H 2 0). It occurs in apple-green scales, 
of an acid, slightly saline taste, and is very soluble in water. 
A good chalybeate. Dose, gr. ij-v. Given also as a 



PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 157 

Ferri Citras (Iron Citrate) may be prepared by the addi- 
tion of ferric hydrate to a solution of citric acid. It is ferric 
citrate (Fe 2 2C 6 H 5 7 ), and occurs in thin, transparent pieces, of 
a garnet-red colour, with a mild, acid, chalybeate taste, slowly 
soluble in cold water, but readily soluble in boiling water. 
Dose, gr. v to gr. x. It is officinal also in the form of solu- 
tion of iron citrate {liquor ferri citratis), a deep reddish-brown 
liquid, given in doses of 10 to 20 drops ; and it is by evaporat- 
ing this solution that the solid citrate is obtained. 

Liquor Ferri Nitratis (Solution of Iron Nitrate) is pre- 
pared by the gradual addition of diluted nitric acid to ferric 
hydrate. It is ferric nitrate (Fe 2 6N0 3 ), and is a pale, amber- 
coloured liquid, with a strong, astringent acid taste. It is 
tonic and astringent, agreeing very well with the stomach, 
and is employed in the treatment of chronic diarrhoea, haemat- 
emesis, hemorrhage from the bowels, and uterine hemorrhage, 
particularly when anaemic symptoms are present. Dose, gtt. x 
to gtt. xx, two or three times a day, in dilution. 

Syrupus Ferri Bromidi (Syrup of Ferrous Bromide) 
contains 10 per cent, of ferrous bromide. It may be given 
with advantage where a bromide and iron are both indicated, 
notably in chorea occurring in delicate girls at the age of 
puberty, and associated with anaemia (H. M.). Dose, f5j- 

Ferri Hypophosphis (Iron Hypophosphite) (Ferric Hypo- 
phosphite) (Fe 2 6H 2 P0 2 ) is obtained by the reaction of a solu- 
tion of sodium or ammonium hypophosphite with solution of 
ferric sulphate. It is a white, amorphous powder, insoluble in 
cold water, soluble in hydrochloric acid, incompatible with the 
soluble salts of mercury and silver, but has the advantage of 
not being decomposed by the cincho-tannic acid of cinchona. 
This is a good chalybeate in diseases of degeneration of the 
nervous tissue, and has been also given in phthisis; other hypo- 
phosphites are combined with it. Dose, gr. x-xxx, three times 
a day. 

Ferri Oxalas (Iron Oxalate) (Ferrous Oxalate) (FeC 2 4 . H 2 0) 
is made by the reaction of solutions of oxalic acid and ferrous 
sulphate. It occurs as a lemon-yellow, crystalline powder, al- 



158 MATERIA MEDICA — MINERAL TONICS. 

most destitute of taste, slightly soluble in water, but easily 
acted upon by the diluted acids, and decomposed by the alka- 
lies and their carbonates. This chalybeate is of recent intro- 
duction, and has the advantage of being well borne by the 
stomach, of being readily absorbed, while it is nearly destitute 
of astringency, and not disposed to change like the ferrous 
salts generally. Dose, gr. ij-iij, in pill, three times a day. 

Liquor Ferri Acetatis {Solution of Ferric Acetate). 
Dose, 1T[x-xxx. Chiefly used in preparing 

Tinctura Ferri Acetata (Tincture of Ferric Acetate), 
a solution of ferric acetate in alcohol and acetic ether. Dose, 
TT|x-f 5ss, or more. 

Ferri Lactas (Iron Lactate) is made by mixing diluted 
lactic acid with iron filings. It is ferrous lactate, and occurs in 
greenish-white crystalline crusts or grains of a mild, sweetish, 
ferruginous taste, sparingly soluble in water, and insoluble in 
alcohol. Used in chlorosis, and has a marked effect in increas- 
ing the appetite. Dose, gr. x— xx, in pill, lozenge, or syrup. 

Ferri et Quinije Citras (Iron and Quinia Citrate). This 
salt is prepared by precipitating quinia from the sulphate by 
ammonia, and afterwards dissolving it in a hot solution of iron 
citrate. As found in the shops, it is a mechanical mixture of 
ferric citrate with a variable proportion of iron and quinia 
citrate. It occurs in thin, transparent scales, of a reddish or 
yellowish-brown colour, with a tint of green, not very soluble in 
water, and of a ferruginous, moderately bitter taste. It com- 
bines the virtues of its two bases, and is thought to have an 
especial agency in diminishing the formation of urea by the 
kidneys, whence its use in uraemia. Dose, gr. v-x. 

Liquor Ferri et Quinia Citratis (Solution of Iron and 
Quinia Citrate). Dose, f5j. 

Vinum Ferri Amarum (Bitter Wine of Iron) is a mixture 
of solution of iron and quinia citrate, tincture of sweet orange 
peel, syrup, and stronger white wine. Dose, f5j-ij- 

Ferri et Ammonii Citras (Iron and Ammonium Citrate) 
is made by adding water of ammonia to solution of iron citrate, 
and evaporating. It occurs in the form of garnet-red, trans- 



PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 159 

lucent scales, of a slightly ferruginous taste, and is readily 
soluble in water ; it has antacid properties. Dose, gr. v-x. 

Vinum Ferri Citratis ( Wine of Citrate of Iron), a solu- 
tion of ammonio-ferric citrate in tincture of sweet orange 
peel, syrup, and stronger white wine. Dose, f5j- 

Ferri et Strychnine Citras (Iron and Strychnia Citrate) 
is made by mixing a solution of strychnia and citric acid in 
distilled water with a solution of iron and ammonium citrate 
in water, and evaporating. It occurs in garnet-red scales, of 
a bitter, ferruginous taste, readily soluble in water. An excel- 
lent tonic. Dose, gr. ij-iij, two or three times a day. 

Syrupus Ferri, Quinle et Strychnia Phosphatum 
(Syrup of the Phosphates of Iron, Quinia and Strychnia), an 
agreeable tonic. Dose, f 5j. 

Ferri et Ammonii Sulphas (Iron and Ammonium Sul- 
phate (NH 4 ) 2 Fe 2 (S0 4 ) 4 .24H 2 0). This salt, called also ammonio- 
ferric alum, is made by adding ammonium sulphate to a hot 
solution of ferric sulphate. It occurs in octahedral crystals, 
of a pale-violet colour and sour, astringent taste, efflorescent, 
and very soluble in water. Used in diarrhoea and chronic 
dysentery. Dose, gr. v-xv, two or three times a day. 

Ferri et Ammonii Tartras (Iron and Ammonium Tar- 
trate) (2(FeO)NH 4 C 4 H 4 6 .5H 2 0) occurs in transparent, gar- 
net-red scales, of a sweetish taste, soluble in water, insoluble 
in alcohol and ether. A mild chalybeate. Dose, gr. x-xxx. 

Ferri Valerianas (Valerianate of Iron) (Ferric Vale- 
rianate), a dark, tile-red amorphous powder, with a mildly 
styptic taste and an odour of valerianic acid; insoluble in cold 
water, but readily soluble in alcohol. Dose, gr. j-iij. 

Ferrum Dialysatum (Dialyzed Iron) has been lately intro- 
duced, and has proved one of the most valuable of the chalyb- 
eates. It is not apt to constipate, and may be given in doses 
of from 15 to 50 drops daily. Dialyzed iron is an antidote to 
arsenic in the stomach. To ensure its conversion into ferric 
hydrate in the stomach, its ingestion should be followed by a 
tablespoonful of sodium chloride. It is not officinal. 

Pills of aloes and iron and syrup of the hypophosphites with 
iron are officinal, and will be again referred to. 



160 MATERIA MEDICA — MINERAL TONICS. 



CUPRI PR^PARATA — PREPARATIONS OF COPPER. 

Metallic copper is inert. The salts of copper act locally as 
caustics, irritants, and astringents, by their coagulating action 
on albumen ; applied to the sound skin they produce but little 
effect. They also constringe the tissues and lessen the blood 
supply to a part. In the blood they probably exist as albu- 
minates. Some observers have noted a gain in flesh, in animals 
and man, after a course of copper. Taken too long they give 
rise to symptoms similar to plumbic poisoning, viz., constipa- 
tion, paralysis, etc. When exhibited in small doses, they exert 
a corroborant influence over the cerebro-spinal system, and are 
employed to fulfill the indications to which tonics are appli- 
cable, as in the cure of ague, neuralgia, epilepsy, etc. In 
larger doses, they act as emetics by gastric irritation ; and in 
excessive doses, they produce gastro-intestinal inflammation 
and disorder of the nervous system ; death, in fatal cases, is 
usually preceded by convulsions, paralysis, and delirium. 
Copper is eliminated by the liver, intestines, and kidneys. Its 
salts are employed therapeutically, both as external and in- 
ternal remedies ; externally as stimulants, astringents, styptics, 
and caustics ; internally, as tonics, astringents, and emetics. 
In cases of poisoning from the cupreous compounds, the best 
antidote is albumen, as white of eggs, milk, wheaten flour. 
The potassium ferrocyanide is also very efficacious, forming 
with the cupreous compound an insoluble copper ferrocyanide. 
This salt (which throws down a mahogany-coloured precipitate), 
ammonia (which strikes an azure-blue colour), sulphuretted 
hydrogen or ammonium sulphide (which throws down a deep 
brownish-black precipitate), and metallic iron (on which metal- 
lic copper is deposited from a cupreous solution), are tests for 
the soluble salts of copper. 

Cupri Sulphas {Copper Sulphate). This salt, known as 
blue stone and blue vitriol, is obtained by roasting the native 
sulphide, or by combining cupric oxide (CuO) and sulphuric 
acid, and occurs also as a by-product in silver-refining. It is 
cupric sulphate (CuS0 4 ,5H 2 0). It occurs in fine prismatic, 



PREPARATIONS OF ZINC. , 161 

blue crystals, which, by exposure to the air, effloresce slightly, 
and become covered with a greenish-white powder. It has a 
styptic, metallic taste, is entirely soluble in water, but insoluble 
in alcohol. It is employed as a tonic and nervine. It is an 
excellent remedy in obstinate intermittent fever, neuralgia, and 
essential nervous diseases, in doses of gr. \ to gr. j, or more, in 
pill, repeated so as not to occasion vomiting. As an astringent, 
it may be given in the same doses, and will be found extremely 
valuable in the treatment of chronic diarrhoea, dysentery, and 
enteritis, and chronic catarrh with profuse secretion. As an 
emetic, the dose is gr. iij to gr. v. Externally, it is used as an 
escharotic to fungous granulations, and in solution to arrest 
hemorrhages, mucous discharges, etc. 

Cuprum Ammoniatum [Ammoniated Copper) (Ammonio- 
copper Sulphate) is made by rubbing together copper sulphate 
and ammonium carbonate. It has a deep azure-blue colour, a 
styptic, metallic taste, and an ammoniacal odour. Its action 
is very similar to that of copper sulphate ; but it is used prin- 
cipally as an antispasmodic tonic in nervous disorders, — epi- 
lepsy, chorea, hysteria, spasmodic asthma, etc. Dose, gr. J, 
gradually increased. It is no longer officinal. 

Cupri Subacetas [Copper Subacetate), or Verdigris 
(Cu 2 02C 2 H 3 2 ), occurs in pale, bluish-green or green masses or 
powder. The dose is gr. J to gr. J ; but it is a powerful poison 
in an overdose, and hence is rarely given as a tonic. The pow- 
der is used as an escharotic, and an ointment is used. Copper 
subacetate is not officinal. 

ZINCI PR^PARATA — PREPARATIONS OF ZINC. 

Zinc in its metallic state is inert Its compounds are very 
analogous in their effects on the system to those of copper, but 
are less energetic. Topically some of the zinc salts (nitrate, 
chloride) act as powerful caustics, by reason of their affinity 
for water and power of coagulating albumen. The soluble zinc 
salts (sulphate, chloride) are readily absorbed, and probably 
exist in the blood as albuminates, while the insoluble salts 
11 



162 4 MATERIA MEDICA — MINERAL TONICS. 

(oxide, carbonate) are slowly taken up by the blood. Zinc is 
eliminated from the system by the bile, intestines, and urine. 
The tests for soluble zinc salts are ammonium sulphide, which 
throws down a white sulphide (the only white sulphide met with), 
the alkalies, alkaline carbonates, and potassium ferrocyanide, 
all of which give white precipitates. The zinc preparations 
are employed topically as caustics, astringents, and desiccants ; 
and internally as tonics, astringents, and antispasmodics, and 
in large doses as emetics. In cases of poisoning (which are, 
however, very uncommon), albumen, demulcents, and opiates 
are to be administered. 

Zinci Sulphas {Zinc Sulphate), or White Vitriol, is pre- 
pared by dissolving zinc in diluted sulphuric acid. It occurs 
in small, colourless, transparent, prismatic crystals, resembling 
those of sulphate of magnesium (ZnS0 4 ,7H 2 0). They have a 
metallic, astringent taste, are soluble in water and insoluble in 
alcohol, and produce their astringent effect by condensing the 
tissue and contracting the blood vessels. Dose, as a tonic, anti- 
spasmodic, and astringent, gr. j to gr. v ; as an emetic (acting 
by gastric irritation), it is the promptest and safest that can be 
given in cases of narcotic poisoning, in the dose of gr. x to gr. 
xx. Externally, it is much used as a caustic, and in solution 
as a collyrium or in gonorrhoea, in the strength of gr. ij-iij to 
water f §ij ; in otitis, gr. v to water f§i. 

Zinci Oxidum {Zinc Oxide) is made by roasting zinc in the 
air. This is an impure form, known as Commercial Oxide of 
Zinc {Zinci Oxidum Venale), sometimes called tutty. A purer 
form is obtained by exposing precipitated zinc carbonate to 
heat, which expels the carbonic acid and water. It is a yel- 
lowish-white powder (ZnO), insoluble in water but soluble in 
diluted sulphuric and hydrochloric acids. It has been given in 
diarrhoea, and as an antispasmodic tonic, in doses of gr. ij to 
iij, gradually increased to gr. viij or x, and is highly esteemed 
in the treatment of epilepsy ; but it is chiefly used externally 
as a dusting powder, or in the form of ointment (80 grains to 
ointment of benzoin 400 grains). 

Zinci Acetas {Zinc Acetate) is made by heating commercial 



PREPARATIONS OF ZINC. 163 

zinc oxide in a solution of acetic acid and distilled water, and 
occurs in white micaceous crystals (Zn2C 2 H 3 2 ,2H 2 0), very 
soluble in water, and efflorescent in a dry air. It may be given 
internally as a tonic antispasmodic, in the dose of gr. j or ij, 
gradually increased ; but it is used chiefly as a topical astrin- 
gent in ophthalmia, gonorrhoea, leucorrhoea, etc., in the pro- 
portion of gr. ij to gr. vj, or more, to an ounce of water. 

Zinci Carbonas Pr^cipitatus {Precipitated Zinc Carbon- 
ate) is obtained by the double reaction of solutions of zinc 
sulphate and sodium carbonate. It is a soft white powder, a 
mixture of carbonate and hydrate (ZnC0 3 (Zn0 2 )3H 2 0), similar 
in its action to the oxide, but is chiefly used as a dusting pow- 
der, and to make a mild astringent and desiccant cerate (Sj to 
ointment Sv). 

Calamina Pr^parata (Prepared Calamine), obtained by 
heat from calamine, the native impure zinc carbonate, is a 
pinkish powder, used as a desiccant, and in the form of a cerate, 
called Turner's cerate. Calamine is so frequently adulterated 
that it is now dismissed from the Pharmacopoeia, though still 
much used. 

Liquor Zinci Chloridi (Solution of Zinc Chloride). The 
evaporation of this solution yields 

Zinci Chloridum (Zinc Chloride) (ZnCl 2 ), a whitish-gray, 
semi-transparent, deliquescent mass, having the softness of wax,' 
and soluble in water, alcohol, and ether. It has been employed 
internally in doses of gr. j or ij, as an antispasmodic tonic in 
chorea, epilepsy, and neuralgia. Its local action is that of a 
powerful caustic, and it is one of the best escharotics that can 
be exhibited, to produce healthy granulations in malignant or 
indolent ulcers, especially in lupus. It may be used as a lotion 
in the strength of gr. ij to f oj of water, or dissolved in a little 
alcohol, or in the form of paste, made with one part of the salt 
to two or four of flour. A solution of zinc chloride is employed 
as an antiseptic, and is also injected into the bloodvessels of 
anatomical subjects to preserve them for dissection. Burnett's 
Disinfecting Fluid is a solution of about 200 grains in a fluid- 
ounce of water. 



164 MATERIA MEDICA — MINERAL TONICS. 

Zinci Iodidum (Zinc Iodide) (Znl 2 ) is made by digesting 
an excess of zinc with iodine diffused in water. It occurs in 
the form of a white deliquescent mass, or of fine needles, of a 
metallic, styptic taste, very soluble in water. It has been used 
internally, as a tonic, antispasmodic, and astringent, in doses 
of gr. i-ij, best exhibited in the form of syrup. Externally, it 
is a most valuable local stimulant and escharotic, equal if not 
superior in effect to the chloride, and is much used. 

Zinci Valeriana s (Zinc Valerianate) (Zn2C 5 H 9 2 ) is pre- 
pared by the double reaction of sodium valerianate and zinc 
sulphate. It occurs in white pearly scales, having a faint odour 
of valerianic acid, and a metallic, styptic taste. It dissolves in 
160 parts of water and 60 of alcohol. Used in epilepsy and 
nervous affections, in the dose of one or two grains, repeated 
several times a day. 



ARGENTI PR^ PA RAT A — PREPARATIONS OF SILVER. 

In the metallic state, silver is wholly inert. The only prep- 
aration which is extensively employed is 

Argenti Nitras (Silver Nitrate). This salt (AgN0 3 ) is 
obtained by dissolving silver in diluted nitric acid. It is anhy- 
drous, and occurs in transparent, colourless, shining, heavy, 
rhombic plates, which have a strongly metallic and bitter taste, 
are wholly soluble in distilled water, and become blackened by 
the action of light in the presence of organic matters. Its so- 
lution yields with hydrochloric acid or sodium chloride a white 
precipitate, entirely soluble in ammonia. 

Physiological Effects. — The topical action of silver nitrate 
to mucous membranes is that of a caustic by reason of its coag- 
ulating action on albumen. This action does not extend deeply, 
since a superficial protecting pellicle is formed. When moist- 
ened and applied to the skin, a white stain is formed, which 
soon becomes black on exposure to light, by reduction of the 
silver to the metallic state. Nervous system : in animals, hypo- 
dermic injections of silver hyposulphite and albuminate have 



PREPARATIONS OF SILVER. . 165 

caused paraplegia. In small doses, tetanic excitement, and in 
toxic, convulsions, were produced. On man the silver salts have 
caused vertigo, loss of memory, nervous depression, etc. The 
effects of silver on the nervous system are centric and not 
peripheral. Circulation : the intravenous injection of the sil- 
ver salts impairs the coagulability of the blood, which is found 
to be dark and pitchy in colour. Other symptoms noted by 
this method were probably due to the production of embolism 
and thrombosis. The silver salts do not -exert a toxic influence 
on the heart. The silver salts have a metallic, styptic taste. 
Small doses (oxide, gr. J, nitrate, gr. J) may be taken with 
considerable impunity by the stomach. But, in excessive quan- 
tity (of nitrate, gr. 3—5), it may occasion gastro-enteric irrita- 
tion, with disturbance of the nervous system; and in these cases, 
the antidote is common salt (sodium chloride), or any inert 
chloride, which produces, when in contact with the nitrate, 
sodium nitrate and silver chloride. Silver nitrate has been 
thought always to undergo conversion into a chloride in the 
stomach; but more probably it unites with albuminous matters, 
which render it soluble. In medicinal doses, it has a specific 
corroborant and antispasmodic action on the nervous system ; 
and, after prolonged use, since its elimination takes place slowly, 
produces a peculiar indelible blueness or slate colour of the true 
skin (argyria), due to a deposition of the metal in the tissues. 
This, it has been lately asserted, is preceded by a peculiar blue 
line on the gums, resembling that produced by lead poisoning. 
Prolonged use of the silver salts (in animals) causes a marked 
loss of weight. Elimination takes place by means of the bile, 
kidneys, and intestines. 

Medicinal Uses. — Internally, silver nitrate has been chiefly 
employed as an antispasmodic tonic in the treatment of epi- 
lepsy, and it is among the most reliable remedies that can be 
administered in this intractable affection ; but its effect in dis- 
colouring the skin is an objection to its protracted use. It is 
used also in locomotor ataxia, chorea, gastric ulcer, gastro- 
dynia, and chronic gastritis, and as an astringent in dysentery 
and diarrhoea, especially when tuberculous. But it is as an 



166 MATERIA MEDICA — MINERAL TONICS. 

external agent that it is most resorted to. It is the most 
efficacious application that can be made to inflamed mucous 
membranes, and, either in the solid form or in solution, it is 
employed in every variety of inflammation of this tissue. It is 
also extensively used to produce healthy granulations in wounds 
and ulcers, to arrest the progress of erysipelatous inflammation 
and variolus pustules, in porrigo and other skin diseases, in 
strictures, and to destroy the virus of chancres and of poisoned 
wounds. 

Administration. — The dose of silver nitrate internally is gr. 
J, gradually increased to gr. J or i, three times a day, in pill 
made with some mild vegetable powder, and given soon after a 
little light food has been taken. For external use, solutions are 
made of various strengths, from gr. ij to 5ss in an ounce of 
distilled water. An ointment is also employed. 

Argenti Nitras Fusus {Fused Silver Nitrate, Lunar 
Caustic). For external use, in the solid form, nitrate of 
silver is melted and poured into small moulds. 

Argenti Nitras Dilutus {Diluted Silver Nitrate) consists 
of 50 per cent, each of silver nitrate and potassium nitrate. 
It is used externally. 

Argenti Oxidum {Silver Oxide) (Ag 2 0) is obtained by 
adding solution of potassa to a solution of silver nitrate. It is 
a tasteless, olive-brown powder, very slightly soluble in water. 
Its uses are analogous to those of the nitrate, and it is em- 
ployed in epilepsy, gastrodynia, chronic diarrhoea, uterine dis- 
ease, etc. It is considered to be free from liability to discolour 
the skin. Dose, gr. ss to gr. i, twice or thrice daily in powder 
or pill. 



BISMUTHI SUBNITRAS — BISMUTH SUBNITRATE. 

This salt is prepared by first forming bismuth nitrate by dis- 
solving bismuth in diluted nitric acid ; as metallic bismuth gen- 
erally contains arsenic, the nitrate thus formed is converted 
into the carbonate by the addition of solution of sodium car- 



BISMUTH SUBNITRATE. 167 

bonate, whereby most of the arsenic is removed as soluble sodi- 
um arseniate ; the bismuth carbonate is next dissolved in nitric 
acid, and the bismuth nitrate is again formed ; a little water is 
added to the mixed solution of bismuth nitrate and arseniate; 
by which the subarseniate is deposited and separated ; the 
addition of a large amount of water causes a deposition of bis- 
muth subnitrate (oxynitrate) ; the supernitrate remaining in so- 
lution is lastly decomposed by ammonia, which takes most of 
the nitric acid, and precipitates the bismuth combined with the 
remainder in the form of subnitrate. Subnitrate of bismuth, 
known as pearl white and magistery of bismuth (BiON0 3 ,H 2 0), 
is a white, inodorous, tasteless powder, nearly insoluble in 
water. In large amounts (two drachms have produced death) 
it acts as a poison, with symptoms like those of arsenical 
poisoning, to which ingredient (arsenic) its toxic action is due. 
Its medicinal properties are tonic, sedative, and astringent. 
The bismuth salts are very insoluble, but it is absorbed to some 
extent, for it has been found in the urine, blood, etc. It is 
used chiefly to allay sickness and vomiting in chronic nervous 
affections of the stomach, to relieve the pain of gastralgia, and 
also as an astringent in subacute and chronic diarrhoea. Dose, 
gr. v to 3j, or even 5ss, in powder or pill. Externally, it is a 
good remedy in skin diseases, in the form of ointment. The 
bismuth subearbonate — bismuthi subearbonas (Bi 2 2 C0 3 ,H 2 0) — 
is recommended as a substitute for the subnitrate. It is 
thought to be more readily tolerated by the stomach, and is 
more soluble in the gastric juice, but it is less astringent. The 
ammonium and bismuth citrate — bismuthi et ammonii citras — 
which occurs i*n glossy, translucent, colourless scales, of a 
slightly acid, metallic, but not disagreeable taste, very soluble 
in water, is a good preparation as a nervine; dose, gr. ij. The 
valerianate has been used in neuralgia ; dose, half a grain to a 
grain, several times a day in pill. The test for a soluble salt 
of bismuth is a piece of paper wetted with a solution of potas- 
sium sulphocyanide, and dried, which will produce a yellow 
spot at the point of contact. 



168 MATERIA MEDICA — MINERAL TONICS. 

CERII OXALAS — CERIUM OXALATE. 

This salt (Ce 2 (C 2 OJ 3 ,9H 2 0) is usually made by adding a solu- 
tion of ammonium oxalate to any soluble salt of cerium, and 
is obtained also from the mineral cerite. It occurs as a snow- 
white, granular powder, inodorous and tasteless, insoluble in 
water, alcohol, and ether, but dissolved by sulphuric acid. It 
resembles the salts of bismuth in its effects, and has lately been 
deservedly extolled in obstinate forms of vomiting, especially 
the vomiting of pregnancy. Its physiological action has not 
been investigated. In chorea and other neuroses it is also 
highly recommended. Dose, a grain three times a day, or 
oftener, in pill or suspended in water. The cerium nitrate has 
been also employed, and is more soluble. Dose, somewhat 
less. 



ACIDA MINERALIA — MINERAL ACIDS. 

The diluted mineral acids are usually classed with tonics ; 
but, although they exert a very considerable corroborant influ- 
ence on the system, their action is in many respects peculiar 
and distinctive. In the concentrated form they are corrosive. 
When properly diluted with water and swallowed in medicinal 
doses, they allay thirst, increase the appetite, stimulate diges- 
tion, and by duodenal irritation increase the flow of bile, and 
all possess great diffusive power. After absorption into the 
blood, they combine either with its alkaline bases or albumen, 
since an acid reaction of the blood is incompatible with life, 
and often produce a restorative effect in morbid conditions of 
the circulating fluid, and in their passage out by the secretions 
act as astringents. Acids given on an empty stomach check 
the secretion of the gastric juice, so that they should be ex- 
hibited after a meal, if it be desirable to promote the digestive 
process. They are employed — as tonics, usually in combina- 
tion with the vegetable bitters, in dyspepsia, especially when it is 
dependent on a deficiency of gastric fluid ; as antalkalines, to 



MINERAL ACIDS. 169 

correct the morbid alkalinity of the blood in typhoid and other 
essential fevers, and in purpura, scurvy, and analogous blood 
diseases; as astringents and styptics, in hemorrhage from the 
stomach and bowels, and in colliquative discharges ; to allay 
febrile heat and cutaneous irritation ; in phosphatic lithiasis ; 
and locally, as escharotics ; and, in very dilute solution, they 
are injected into the bladder as lithontriptics. In cases of 
poisoning from the mineral acids, the alkaline earths and fixed 
oils are the proper antidotes. 

Acidum Sulphuricum (Sulphuric Acid) (H 2 S0 4 ), formerly 
called Oil of Vitriol, is obtained by burning sulphur, mixed 
with nitre, over a stratum of water contained in a chamber 
lined with sheet-lead. It is a dense, colourless, inodorous, cor- 
rosive liquid, of a strongly acid taste and an oily consistence, 
which unites with water in all proportions with the evolution of 
heat. When of the sp. gr. 1-845, it contains one equivalent of 
water. It should have, as directed by the Pharmacopoeia, the 
sp. gr. 1*843, when it contains 79 per cent, of anhydrous acid ; 
but it is never found of a sp. gr. over 1*835. The diluted acid 
is readily detected by a soluble barium salt, which precipitates 
a white insoluble barium sulphate ; veratria introduced into the 
diluted acid, and evaporated to dryness, leaves a crimson de- 
posit. In the concentrated form it is not employed internally, 
but is sometimes used externallv as a caustic, acting bv coagu- 
lating albumen, and its affinity for water and organic bases. 
Dilute sulphuric acid lessens thirst, aids digestion, and dimin- 
ishes the secretions of the bowels and skin. According to Gub- 
ler, it — and the other mineral acids — exists in the blood loosely 
combined with albumen, and that on reaction of the excretory 
organs this combination is broken up, the albumen remaining 
in the vessels and the acid passing out united with other bases. 
When swallowed, it acts as a violent corrosive poison, causing 
a burning pain in the mouth, throat, and stomach, and usually 
staining the lips, mouth, and fauces with white or black sloughs ; 
occasionally the action of the poison is spent upon the upper 
part of the larynx, and death takes place from asphyxia, with- 
out the entrance of the poison into the stomach. The proper 



170 MATERIA MEDICA MINERAL TONICS. 

antidote is magnesia or chalk, or solution of soap, and mucil- 
aginous drinks should be afterwards freely administered. 

Acidum Sulphuricum Dilutum [Diluted Sulphuric Acid) 
contains two troyounces of sulphuric acid in a pint of acid 
diluted with distilled water. It is given as a tonic, refrigerant, 
and astringent, in the dose of from ten to thirty drops, three 
times a day, in water, and should be sucked through a tube to 
prevent injury to the teeth. This acid is a particularly valu- 
able remedy in typhus and typhoid fevers, colliquative perspi- 
rations, cholera, and choleraic diarrhoea ; and it is the best 
corrective for phosphatic lithiasis. Some observations have 
been made which seem to assign it prophylactic powers against 
epidemic cholera. It is used externally as a gargle and a wash 
to ulcers. 

Acidum Sulphuricum Aromaticum {Aromatic Sulphuric 
Acid), or Elixir of Vitriol, is made by digesting six troyounces 
of sulphuric acid in a pint of alcohol, then percolating a troy- 
ounce of ginger and a troyounce and a half of cinnamon with 
alcohol till a pint of tincture is obtained, and mixing the tinc- 
ture with the diluted acid. It is a reddish-brown liquid, with 
an aromatic odour and a pleasant acid taste ; and is an agree- 
able substitute for the diluted sulphuric acid, administered in 
the same doses. 

Acidum Sulphurosum {Sulphurous Acid) is made by heat- 
ing sulphuric acid with charcoal and distilled water. The sul- 
phuric acid is deprived of an equivalent of oxygen by the 
charcoal, and becomes sulphurous acid (H 2 S0 3 ). It is a colour- 
less liquid, having the smell of burning sulphur and a sulphur- 
ous, sour, and somewhat astringent taste. It has been only of 
late years employed in medicine, and is believed to have -a 
special influence in destroying parasitic life. It is readily ab- 
sorbed by the stomach, and is eliminated by the urine and 
faeces as a sulphate. Internally, it is very efficacious in sarcina 
ventriculi, or yeast vomiting ; dose, f 3j> largely diluted with 
water. Externally, it is used in skin diseases (particularly 
those of a parasitic nature, either animalcular or cryptogamous), 
diluted with two or three measures of water or glycerin. The 



MINERAL ACIDS. 171 

sodium sulphite — sodii sulphis (Na 2 S0 3 ,7H 2 0) — is used as a 
substitute for sulphurous acid, which is developed from the 
salt by any of the organic acids. It occurs in white, efflores- 
cent, prismatic crystals, of a sulphurous taste, soluble in four 
parts of cold and one part of boiling water. Dose, 5j» three 
times a day ; a solution (5i-f§i of water) is a good local appli- 
cation in erysipelas. The sodium hyposulphite (Na 2 S 2 3 ,5H 2 0) 
is used for the same purposes. It occurs in white, tabular crys- 
tals, of a pearly lustre and sulphurous taste, which are very 
deliquescent, and very soluble in water and alcohol and insolu- 
ble in ether. Dose, gr. x-xx, three times a day, and for ex- 
ternal use, 5j dissolved in water fsj. Both the sodium sul- 
phite and hyposulphite have been found efficacious in intermit- 
tent and remittent fevers. The sulphite is perhaps the more 
efficacious salt. Potassii sulphis [potassium sulphite (K 2 S0 3 , 
2H 2 0)) occurs in white, opaque fragments or powder, of a 
saline and sulphurous taste, very soluble in water; its uses and 
doses are the same as those of sodium sulphite. The magne- 
sium sulphite (MgSo 3 ,6H 2 0) is also employed in zymotic dis- 
eases, and is less unpalatable than the sodium salt, and besides 
contains a larger proportional quantity of acid. The sodium, 
potassium, and magnesium sulphites are employed in the treat- 
ment of purulent infection. Calcium and ammonium sulphites 
have been also recommended. The sulphides appear to possess 
the power of checking the formation of pus. On this ground 
they are highly lauded in boils, carbuncles, etc., by Dr. Ringer. 
Calcium sulphide (calxsulphurata), given in hourly doses, gr. 
-^, is the salt recommended. In eight cases of chancroidal 
bubo I found the use of calcium sulphide of apparent service 
in promoting their resolution. The dose employed was gr. J-J 
s. t. d. 

Acidum Nitricum (Nitric Acid) (HN0 3 ) is obtained by the 
action of sulphuric acid upon potassium nitrate. When pure 
it is colourless ; but as found in the shops it is usually of a 
straw colour, owing to the presence of nitric peroxide. It 
should have a sp. gr. 1*420 (when it contains 60 per cent, of 
anhydrous acid), and is a corrosive, sour liquid, evolving white 



172 MATERIA MEDICA — MINERAL TONICS. 

fumes when exposed to the air. It may be recognized by giv- 
ing off orange-coloured fumes when added to metallic copper 
and other metals, by the morphia test (see p. 57), and by strik- 
ing a blood red colour with brucia ; diphenylamia has lately 
been found to be a delicate test, producing a permanent blue 
colour with nitric acid. Nitric acid is readily absorbed by the 
blood, and probably exists there either in the form of nitrates 
or combined with albumen (Gubler). Nitric acid stimulates the 
glandular apparatus of the intestinal canal, which seems to be 
due to a local action. It is probably eliminated as a nitrate by 
the kidneys. Locally, nitric acid is a powerful caustic, acting 
by abstracting water and combining with the alkaline bases of 
the tissues. It is employed, in the concentrated form, as an 
escharotic to destroy warts and stimulate indolent sinuses, and 
diluted, as an astringent wash or gargle. Cases of poisoning 
from this acid are to be treated with magnesia or soap and 
mucilaginous drinks In poisoning from nitric acid, the fauces 
and mouth are covered with yellow eschars, due to the forma- 
tion of picric acid. Internally, it is used in the form of 

Actdtjm Nitricum Dilutum {Diluted Nitric Acid), which 
contains three troyounces of acid in a pint of diluted acid. 
This is given as a substitute for sulphuric acid, but is more apt 
to disagree with the stomach ; it is also employed as an altera- 
tive in syphilis, and has been found useful in whooping-cough. 
Combined with laudanum and camphor-water, nitric acid is 
much used in the treatment of dysentery under the name of 
Hopes Camphor Mixture (camphor water fSviij, nitric acid 
f5i, laudanum 25 drops) ; dose, f §ss, repeated. Dose for in- 
ternal use, 20 to 40 drops, three times a day, reduced with 
water. 

Acidum Hydrochloricum (Muriatic Acid) is an aqueous 
solution of hydrochloric acid gas (HC1), of sp. gr. 1*160, and is 
obtained by the action of sulphuric acid on a solution of sodium 
chloride. It is, when pure, a transparent, colourless liquid, 
but has often a yellow colour, owing to the presence of chlo- 
rine, iron, or other contamination. It gives off dense white 
fumes when in contact with ammonia, and evolves chlorine gas 



MINERAL ACIDS. 173 

when heated with manganese dioxide ; in the diluted state it 
produces, with solution of silver nitrate, a white precipitate, 
insoluble in boiling nitric acid, but soluble in ammonia. Lo- 
cally, it is an active caustic, abstracting water and uniting with 
the alkaline bases of the tissues. Strong baths of muriatic 
and the other mineral acids exert a powerful influence upon the 
skin. Hydrochloric acid is readily absorbed by the stomach, 
either as a chloride or joined with albumen. Hydrochloric 
acid, in small quantities, augments the digestive power of the 
gastric juice, since the acidity of that fluid depends on muriatic 
acid. Hydrochloric acid is chiefly eliminated by the urine. 
It has a corrosive taste and a suffocating odour, and is an active 
poison, though less irritating than sulphuric and nitric acids. 
Magnesia or soap is the proper antidote. It is used externally 
as a caustic, and as an application in diphtheria, ulcerative and 
gangrenous stomatitis, etc. ; internally, in the form of 

Acidum Hydrochloricum Dtlutum {Diluted Muriatic 
Acid), which contains four troyounces of acid in a pint of diluted 
acid. This is employed in typhoid and typhus fevers, malig- 
nant scarlatina, etc. ; also to counteract phosphatic deposits in 
the urine, to prevent the generation of worms, in syphilis, in 
dysentery, and in some forms of dyspepsia. Dose, twenty to 
sixty drops, which may be given in infusion of rose. 

Acidum Nitro-Hydrochloricum (JVitro- Muriatic Acid). 
This acid is made by mixing three troyounces of nitric acid with 
five troyounces of muriatic acid, the resulting reaction liberating 
chlorine, and forming chloronitrous acid and water, as follows : 
HN0 3 +3Chl=Cl 2 +NOCl (chloronitrous acid) +H 2 0. It has 
a deep golden-yellow colour, and emits the smell of chlorine, 
which is the chief active constituent. Internally, it is em- 
ployed as a stomachic tonic, and is thought also to be particu- 
larly efficacious in oxaluria and diseases of the liver and in 
syphilis. Rutherford's experiments on dogs show that it is a 
hepatic stimulant. It should not be given with mercurials. 
Externally, it is used as a bath, either local or general, in oxa- 
luria, syphilis, and chronic hepatitis, for which purpose one or 
two ounces of acid may be added to a gallon of water. Dose, 



174 MATERIA MEDICA — ASTRINGENTS. 

from two to five drops, properly diluted, and carefully in- 
creased. 

Acidum Nitro Hydrochloricum Dilutum (Diluted Nitro- 
Muriatic Acid) contains four troyounces of acid in a pint of 
diluted acid ; dose, ten to twenty drops. 



ORDER V. — ASTRINGENTS. 

These are medicines which produce contraction and corruga- 
tion of the tissues by a local action. Their constitutional effects 
are somewhat analogous to those of tonics ; and, like them, they 
increase the tone and vigour of the body, and exercise a control 
over various disorders of the nervous system. But they are 
chiefly employed to cure relaxation of the fibres and tissues, to 
subdue inflammation of superficial parts, and to arrest hemor- 
rhage and excessive discharges from mucous membranes or other 
secreting surfaces. In checking morbid discharges from the 
bowels, astringents diminish the secretions from the intestinal 
canal, and restrain their peristaltic movements, accomplishing 
this by a local action. They are divided into Vegetable and 
Mineral astringents. Most of the former owe their astrin- 
gency to the presence of a principle termed tannic acid, and 
differ from tonics in the absence of bitterness. The mineral 
preparations usually classed among astringents are those of 
alum and lead, and are distinguished from the mineral astrin- 
gent tonics by their more decided astringency and a sedative 
action on the vascular system. 



VEGETABLE ASTRINGENTS. 
ACIDUM TANNICUM — TANNIC ACID. 

This acid, which is the active principle of the vegetable as- 
tringents, is usually extracted from powdered nutgall by the 
action of washed ether. The nutgall, made into a soft paste 
with ether, is enveloped in a canvas cloth, and is pressed be- 



TANNIC ACID. 175 

tween tin plates ; the resulting cake is again mixed with washed 
ether and expressed ; and the expressed liquids are mixed, 
evaporated and dried ; the water seems to be the solvent which 
extracts the tannic acid. It is a light, feathery, non-crystal- 
line powder, of a yellowish-white colour and a strongly astrin- 
gent taste, is very soluble in water, and soluble, though less so, 
in alcohol and ether. It produces a white flocculent precipitate 
with solution of gelatine, a bluish-black "precipitate with ferric 
salts (ink), and white precipitates with solutions of the vege- 
table alkalies ; and these substances are to be, therefore, con- 
sidered incompatible with all the vegetable astringents. There 
is a variety of tannic acid (mimo -tannic acid) obtained from 
kino, catechu, and some other substances, which strikes a 
greenish black precipitate with the salts of iron, and is not con- 
vertible into gallic acid. Tannic acid is C 14 H 10 O 9 ; it is a glu- 
coside, yielding, like many other substances, glucose when 
boiled with diluted sulphuric or hydrochloric acid, the other 
product being gallic acid. The most recent investigators con- 
sider tannin to be the anhydride of gallic acid, in the way that 
S0 3 (sulphurous anhydride) is the anhydride of sulphuric acid 
(H,S0 4 ). 

Effects and Uses. — Tannic acid applied locally to mucous 
membranes is a powerful astringent, and is applicable to all the 
cases in which astringents are useful. Tannic acid precipitates 
peptones from watery solutions, but this does not take place in 
the presence of muriatic acid (Lewin). It checks the secre- 
tions of the mouth and stomach by constringing the calibre 
of the vessels, and it restrains intestinal peristaltis. Injected 
into the veins in large amount it coagulates albumen, causing 
fatal thrombosis. Introduced in the same way, more slowly, 
in moderate quantities, it exists as tannate of albumen, being 
held in solution by the alkaline carbonates (Lewin). It is now 
believed that, owing to its coagulating influence on albumen, 
tannic acid is not absorbed in the stomach, and cannot produce 
constitutional effects until converted into gallic acid ; but this 
is probably again changed in the blood into tannic acid. It is 
eliminated as tannic, gallic, and pyrogallic acids by the kid- 



176 MATERIA MEDICA — ASTRINGENTS. 

neys and intestinal canal. It is used internally in the treat- 
ment of diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera, hemorrhage, colliquative 
sweats, etc. ; also as an enema in diarrhoea, dysentery, pro- 
lapsus ani, and fissure of the rectum ; and, as a topical applica- 
tion, in hemorrhages, inflammations, and morbid discharges 
from mucous membranes, ulcers, etc. It is perhaps the best 
form in which the vegetable astringents can be employed, owing 
to the certainty and minuteness of the dose in which it can be 
given. Dose, gr. j to gr. iij or iv, in pill, occasionally repeated. 
Troches of tannic acid are made by rubbing together tannic 
acid, powdered sugar, and powdered tragacanth, and forming 
a mass with orange-flower water ; each troche contains a grain 
of tannic acid. Suppositories of tannic acid contain each two 
grains of tannic acid. For external use, the glycerite of tannic 
acid (glyceritum acidi tannici) is employed ; it is made by 
rubbing together and dissolving at a gentle heat tannic acid in 
glycerin. Ointment of tannic acid (unguentum acidi tannici) 
is made by rubbing up 30 grains of tannic acid with a troy- 
ounce of lard. 



ACIDUM GALLICUM — GALLIC ACID. 

This principle is found in many of the vegetable astringents, 
but less uniformly than tannic acid, and is probably the result 
of changes which the latter has undergone. It is prepared by 
exposing a mixture of nutgall in water to the air, in a warm 
place, for a month, when the tannic acid is gradually converted 
into gallic acid by the absorption of a molecule of water, since 
the most recent experimenters (H. Schiff, Sac, and Lowe) have 
shown that tannic acid is the anhydride of gallic acid ; it is 
purified by being boiled in water and filtered through animal 
charcoal. Gallic acid is H 3 C 7 H 3 5 +H 2 0. It is distinguished 
from tannic acid by not coagulating albumen or gelatin. With 
ferric salts it forms blue-black precipitates, and it unites with 
organic and inorganic bases to form gallates. For internal 
use, gallic acid is preferable to tannic, since it does not coag- 
ulate albumen. It occurs in small silky, nearly colourless 



NUTGALL. 177 

crystals, having a slightly acid and astringent taste, and is 
soluble in boiling water, and slightly so in cold water. 

Effects and Uses. — Gallic acid is a valuable astringent, which 
has of late been extensively employed in hemorrhagic disorders, 
as uterine hemorrhage, hemoptysis, hematuria, bloody diar- 
rhoea, etc. Both tannic and gallic acids have been found use- 
ful in albuminuria. Gallic acid has but feeble local astringent 
powers, and is probably converted into tannic acid in the blood. 
Given by the stomach, it is more efficacious than the latter acid. 
It may be given in doses of gr. ij to gr. v, in pill, every two 
or three hours. G-lycerite of gallic acid is made by the same 
formula as that of tannic acid, but neither is officinal. 



GALLA — NUTGALL. 

Nutgall is an excrescence found upon Quercus infectoria, 
the Gall Oak (Nat. Ord. Cupuliferae), a small tree or shrub of 
Asia Minor. The gall-nuts are produced by the puncture of 
the buds by a fly (Cynips quercusfolii or Diplolepis gallon tinc- 
torial) to form a nidus for its eggs. This occasions an irritation 
and flow of juices to the part, resulting in the formation of a 
tumour round the larvae, which, on attaining maturity, perforate 
the gall and escape. Galls are produced chiefly in Syria and 
Asia Minor, and are imported from the Levant. They are 
brought also from Calcutta, being collected to some extent in 
India. Galls are spherical, about the size of a hickory-nut, 
with small tubercles on their surface. The best are bluish or 
black externally and grayish within, without odour, and of a 
very astringent, bitter taste. They yield their properties to 
both water and alcohol, but best to the former, and contain 
tannic acid, 50 to 60 per cent., and gallic acid, 3 per cent. ; 
mucilage, sugar, etc. White galls are collected after they have 
been perforated by the insect, and are inferior in astringency, 
containing only 30 per cent, of tannic acid. 

Effects and Uses. — Galls are powerfully astringent, but are 
not much used internally. In the form of infusion or decoc- 
tion they are employed as enemata in diarrhoea and dysentery, 
12 



178 MATERIA MEDICA — ASTRINGENTS. 

and- also as gargles. Dose of the 'powder, gr. x to gi\ xx. 
The tincture (Siv to diluted alcohol Oij) may be given in the 
dose of f'5j to fSiij, but it is used chiefly as a chemical test. 
The ointment (5i to lard Si) is a favourite application in hemor- 
rhoids, and may be advantageously combined with opium (5ss 
to ointment 5j). 

CATECHU. 

Catechu, formerly called Terra japonica, is an extract of 
the wood of Acacia catechu, a small prickly tree of India 
(Nat. Ord. Leguminosae). Twelve or fifteen varieties of the 
drug are described by pharmacologists ; but it is usually met 
with in the shops in masses of various shapes and sizes, of a 
rusty-brown colour externally, and varying internally from a 
reddish or yellowish- brown to a dark-brown colour. The best 
is of a dark colour, and is easily broken into small angular 
fragments, with a smooth, glossy surface, bearing some re- 
semblance to kino. It is without smell, and has an astringent, 
bitter taste. It contains about 50 per cent, of catechu-tannic 
acid, which strikes a greenish-black precipitate with ferric salts, 
and about 30 per cent, of an extractive, called catechuic acid, 
or catechin, to both of which it owes its peculiar properties ; 
also, in small amount, quercitrin and catechu-red. 

Effects and Uses — This is one of the most powerful and 
valuable of the vegetable astringents, possessing also mild 
tonic properties. It is much employed in combination with 
other remedies in diarrhoea, dysentery, hemorrhages, and in all 
cases of immoderate discharge unattended with inflammatory 
action. It is best administered half an hour before meals. It 
is a good deal used in relaxed conditions of the mouth and 
throat, to relieve the hoarseness of public speakers, also in 
aphthous ulcerations of the mouth and spongy affections of 
the gums. Topically, it is employed as a styptic, and in solu- 
tion as an injection in gonorrhoea and gleet, etc. Dose of the 
powder, gr. x to 5ss in bolus or emulsion. 

Infusum Catechu Compositum (Compound Infusion of 



KINO. 179 

Catechu) is made by adding boiling water (Oj) to powdered 
catechu (§ss) and cinnamon (5j) ; dose, f oj to f|>ij, three or 
four times a day. Of the tincture (Siij to diluted alcohol Oij, 
with cinnamon oij) the dose is f5j to f3iij- 

KINO. 

The term Kino is applied to the products of several trees. 
Five varieties are known. 1. East India kino, which is the 
most common, and is the INSPISSATED juice of Pterocarpus 
marsupium, a lofty tree of Malabar. 2. African kino, the 
original variety introduced into Europe, but not now met with; 
obtained from Pterocarpus erinaceus. 3. Botany Bay kino, 
the concrete juice of Eucalyptus resinifera, a large tree of Au- 
stralia. 4. Bengal or Palas kino, from the Butea frondosa. 
(All these trees belong to the Nat. Ord. Leguminosse.) 5. 
Jamaica and Caraccas kino, the extract of the wood and bark 
of Coccoloba uvifera, or Seaside Grape ( Nat. Ord. Polygona- 
ceae), a small tree of South America and the West Indies. 

East India kino is met with in small angular, shining frag- 
ments, of a dark-brown or reddish-brown colour, brittle, with- 
out smell, but with a very astringent taste. It contains kino- 
tannic acid, kino-red, pyrocatechin (a trace), and kino'in. 

South America kino comes in large masses, externally very 
dark, and internally of a deep reddish-brown colour. 

Jamaica kino is like the last, but contained in large gourds. 

Effects and Uses. — Kino is a powerful astringent, and is 
much used in diarrhoea, chronic dysentery, leucorrhoea, gonor- 
rhoea, hemorrhages, etc. Externally, it is employed as a 
styptic, and as a stimulant to indolent ulcers. Dose, of the 
powder, gr. x to 3ss ; of the tincture (5vj (mixed with an equal 
bulk of dry sand) to diluted alcohol foviij), f 5j or foij may 
be given, and it is frequently added to chalk mixture in diar- 
rhoea. It becomes gelatinous if kept for any time, but this 
may be prevented by mixing with f §iv of alcohol f oj of water 
and f 5j of glycerin, instead of the diluted alcohol of the of- 
ficinal formula. 



180 MATERIA MEDICA — ASTRINGENTS. 
KRAMERIA RHATA NY. 

Rhatany is the root of Krameria triandra (Nat. Ord. Poly- 
galese), a shrub of Peru. It occurs in woody cylindrical pieces, 
of the thickness of a goose-quill to twice that size — many radi- 
cles being often united to a common head. They have a dark, 
reddish-brown bark and a tough central ligneous portion, of a 
lighter red colour. They are without smell, but have a very 
astringent, slightly bitter and sweetish taste, which is much 
stronger in the cortical than the ligneous portion ; and hence 
the smallest pieces should be preferred, as they contain the 
most bark. Rhatany yields a large pro-portion of kramero- 
tannic or rhatania-tannic acid and rhatanic red. It imparts 
its properties to both cold and boiling water, but more fully to 
alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — Rhatany is powerfully astringent, with 
some tonic properties. It is much used in the treatment of 
diarrhoea, dysentery, hemorrhages, etc., and as an enema Trous- 
seau strongly recommends its u?e in fissure of the anus and 
in tenesmus due to chronic dysentery or hemorrhoids ; it is 
also used in hemorrhoids, leucorrhoea, etc. The powdered 
extract is an ingredient in many tooth-powders, and the tinc- 
ture is used also as an astringent mouth-wash. Dose of the 
powder, gr. xx to gr. xxx. But it is more employed in infusion 
(Si to boiling water Oj), dose, f Sj or f §ij ; watery extract, dose, 
gr. x to gr. xv ; fluid extract, dose, f 5ss-i ; tincture (gvi to 
diluted alcohol Oij), dose, f5j to f5ij ; and syrup, dose, f 5j to 
fgss. 

H^MATOXYLON^ — LOGWOOD. 

Logwood, or Campeachy wood, is the heart-wood of Haema- 
toxylon Campechianum (Nat. Ord. Leguminosse), a medium- 
sized tree of Campeachy and other maritime parts of tropical 
America, and now naturalized in the West Indies. The por- 
tion used in medicine, and also as a dye, is the heart-wood, 
from which the bark and white sap-wood are removed pre- 
vious to exportation. It is imported in billets of different 



WHITE OAK — BLACK OAK. 181 

sizes, of a dark colour externally and a deep red internally ; in 
the shops it is kept in chips or raspings. It has a sweetish, 
astringent taste and a feeble, not unpleasant, smell. It con- 
tains tannic acid, a colouring principle called hcematin or 
hcematoxylin, volatile oil, resin, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — It is a mild astringent, useful in chronic 
diarrhoea and dysentery, and! particularly well adapted to the 
weakened condition of the bowels which follows cholera infan- 
tum, and is also much employed in the diarrhoea of phthisis. 
It is given either in decoction (Si to water Oij, boiled down to 
Oj), in the dose of f Sj to f§ij to adults, and f5j to f 5y to 
children ; or watery extract, in the dose of gr. x to 5ss, in 
solution. 



QUERCUS ALB A W HITE0AK. QUERCUS TINCTORI A 

BLACK OAK. 

The barks of several species of American oaks possess as- 
tringent properties, and are probably to be found in the shops, 
but the only officinal varieties are Quercus alba, White Oak, 
and Quercus tinctoria, Black Oak {Nat. Ord. Cupuliferae). The 
inner bark is the portion used, but the leaves and acorns also 
are astringent. White-oak bark is distinguished by its whitish 
colour. When prepared for use, it is deprived of its epidermis, 
and is of a light-brown colour and fibrous texture, with an as- 
tringent and bitterish taste. Water and alcohol extract its 
virtues, which depend mainly on the presence of querci-tannic 
acid, with a bitter principle termed quercin. Black-oak bark 
is more furrowed, has a darker colour, a more bitter taste, and 
stains the saliva yellow when chewed ; it is much employed as 
a dye, under the name of quercitron. It contains a larger pro- 
portion of querci-tannic acid than the white-oak bark, and a 
yellow colouring matter, quercitrin. 

Effects and Uses. — A decoction of white-oak bark is a good 
remedy in diarrhoea and hemorrhoids, and is employed as an 
enema in hemorrhoids and prolapsus and fissure of the anus, 
as a gargle in relaxation of the uvula, and as an injection in 



182 



MATERIA MEDICA ASTRINGENTS. 



leucorrhoea. It is used as a bath in the bowel complaints of 
children ; and a poultice of the ground bark is applied in gan- 
grene. Black-oak bark is too irritating for internal exhibition ; 
but for external use is a stronger astringent than the white- 
oak bark. Of the decoction of white oak (decoctum quercds 
albce) (Si to water Oj), f §ij may be taken frequently. 

GERANIUM. 

One of the most powerful of the indigenous astringents is 
Geranium maculatum, Crowfoot, or Cranesbill (JVat. Ord. Ge- 



Fig. 15. 




WITCHHAZEL. 183 

raniacere), a perennial herbaceous plant, growing in moist 
■woody situations, with an erect stem one to two feet high, pale- 
green, mottled leaves, and large purple flowers, which appear in 
April and May. The part used is the rhizome, which should 
be collected in the autumn. This, when dried, occurs in 
wrinkled, rough pieces, from a quarter to a half an inch in 
thickness, furnished with slender fibres, of a dark-brown colour 
externally and a pale flesh-colour within. It has an astrin- 
gent but not bitter taste and no smell, and contains tannic and 
gallic acid, with some mucilage. 

Effects and Uses. — This is an excellent simple astringent, 
agreeing very well with the stomach, and might be advantage- 
ously substituted for more expensive foreign drugs. It may be 
used internally to fulfill the indications of kino, rhatany, etc., 
in bowel complaints and hemorrhages, and topically as an ene- 
ma, gargle, injection, etc. It is also a valuable styptic. Dose, 
in poivde?*, gr. x to xx ; of the decoction (§i to water Oj), foj 
to f 5ij may be given ; this is not officinal. A decoction in 
milk is given to children. The fluid extract may be given in 
doses of 5ss-5i- 

HAMAMELIS — WITCHHAZEL. 

Hamamelis Virginica, or Witchhazel [Nat. Ord. Hamame- 
lace^e), is a shrub, from six to ten feet high, growing in the 
damp woods of the United States and Canada. The leaves 
are the officinal part of the shrub, and should be collected in 
autumn. They are bitter and astringent. The bark may also 
be used. Hamamelis contains tannic acid (8-10 per cent.), a 
volatile principle not yet accurately determined, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — Hamamelis is an astringent, and, accord- 
ing to Phillips, possesses probably a hemostatic and shrinking 
powder over veins, especially those of the skin and mucous mem- 
branes. It has been used with success in passive hemorrhages, 
in hsematemesis, haemophthisis, and in hematuria. It is very 
beneficial in hemorrhoids, checking the bleeding and reducing 
the size of the enlarged veins. For this purpose it may be 



184 MATERIA MBDICA — ASTRINGENTS. 

given internally and used as an injection, beginning with 5j to 
water gij, and gradually increasing the strength. The injection 
should be taken morning and evening, and retained. It must 
be continued for some time (H. M.). It is also recommended 
in varicocele, and locally in inflammations and congestions. 
The fluid extract is the only officinal preparation; dose, 5ss-j. 

The following vegetable astringents deserve notice, though 
less frequently employed than the foregoing : 

Granati Fructus Cortex {Pomegranate Rind) (not offici- 
nal). This is the rind of the fruit of Punica granatum, 
the Pomegranate tree (Nat, Ord. Granatacese), a small tree 
of northern Africa, Syria, and Persia, now naturalized in the 
warmer portions of Europe, the West Indies, our Southern 
States, etc. The rind of the fruit is a powerful astringent, 
containing 28 per cent, of tannic acid, but is little used inter- 
nally, from its liability to occasion nausea. Dose, in poivder, 
gr. xx to 3ss ; but it is best given in decoction (a §j to water 
Oj), dose, fgj, 

Rosa Gallica (Bed Rose) ; Rosa Centifolia (Pale Rose). 
The petals of these two species of rose are officinal, but those 
of almost every other species of cultivated rose may be em- 
ployed for the same purpose as Rosa centifolia, which is not 
astringent. The red rose is a mild astringent, and is chiefly 
used in conjunction, with sulphuric acid in the infusum rosoe 
compositum — compound infusion of rose; dose, fSij to foiv. 
The confection is used as a basis for pills. Mel Rosoe (Honey 
of Rose), made with diluted alcohol and clarified honey, is used 
as an addition to gargles ; the syrup is added to mixtures. The 
pale rose is slightly laxative. Aqua Rosob (Rose Water), dis- 
tilled from the pale rose, is much employed in collyria, etc. 
TJnguentum Aqum Rosce (Ointment of Rose Water) is made 
by melting together expressed oil of almond, Siijss, spermaceti, 
§i, white wax, 5\j, and then gradually adding rose water, f§ij ; 
this is a very soothing application, much used under the name 
of cold cream. 

Diospyrus (Persimmon) (not officinal). The unripe fruit 



PREPARATIONS OF LEAD. 185 

of Diospjros Virginiana {Nat, Ord. Ebenaceae), an indigenous 
tree, is employed in diarrhoea, dysentery, and uterine hemor- 
rhage, in infusion, syrup, and vinous and acetous tinctures. 
The bark is bitter and astringent. 

Rubus [Blackberry). The bark of the root of Rubus 
villosus and Rubus Canadensis (Nat. Ord. Rosacese), the former 
an erect, prickly shrub, and the latter a creeping brier, are 
very efficient mild astringents, which have been used with ex- 
cellent effect in bowel complaints, especially those of children. 
The astringency resides principally in the cortical portion, and 
hence the smallest roots should be preferred ; of the decoction 
(not officinal) (§j to water Oj), fgij may be taken frequently. 
The fluid extract may be given in doses of f5j-ij ; the syrup is 
made by adding Oss of the fluid extract to syrup Ojss. Dose, 
fgse. 

Castanea (Chestnut). The leaves of the Castanea vesca 
(Nat. Ord. Cupuliferse), a stately tree indigenous to both hem- 
ispheres, are officinal. They should be gathered in the autumn 
while still green. They contain tannin, etc., and are used 
principally in whooping-cough. Dose of the fluid extract, f5ss- 
ij. A large number of vegetable substances, both indigenous 
and foreign, have been used as astringents in addition to those 
enumerated, the astringent principle being the most common 
medicinal property with which plants are endowed. The fore- 
going list comprises the more important. 



MINERAL ASTRINGENTS. 
PLUMBI PR^PARATA — PREPARATIONS OF LEAD. 

Metallic lead is considered inert. The sulphide and sulphate 
are probably also inactive; but with these exceptions, all the 
compounds of lead possess more or less activity. When ap- 
plied locally in solutions not too concentrated, they coagulate 
albumen, contract the bloodvessels, and consequently blanch 
the tissues. When more highly concentrated solutions are ap- 
plied, they act as irritants, producing inflammation. When 



186 MATERIA MEDICA ASTRINGENTS. 

administered in therapeutical doses, they act as astringents in 
the alimentary canal, checking secretion and causing constipa- 
tion. Rutherford states that lead acetate is the only drug 
which decreases the secretion of bile without causing purga- 
tion, and attributes this effect to a direct action on the liver. 
The lead preparations probably enter the blood as albuminates. 
After absorption they produce a diminution in the volume 
and frequency of the pulse and in the activity of the secreting 
functions, and frequently arrest sanguineous discharges, both 
natural and artificial. In excessive doses, several of the sat- 
urnine compounds are irritant and corrosive poisons, giving 
rise to gastroenteric imflammation, and sometimes to paraly- 
sis, coma, and collapse. The toxic dose of lead acetate is §i- 
ij. It is rarely fatal, owing to the vomiting it, produces. The 
proper antidote is sulphuric acid or some alkaline or earthy 
sulphate, in solution in a large quantity of diluent. The tests 
for lead are sulphuretted hydrogen and a solution of potassium 
iodide ; the former strikes a black and the latter a yellow pre- 
cipitate with soluble lead salts. The editor has ascertained 
that sulphuretted hydrogen will detect one part of a soluble lead 
salt in one million parts of water (Am. J. M. S., Oct., 1878). 
When the system becomes impregnated with lead, either 
from the too long-continued use of its preparations medicinally, 
from drinking water drawn through lead pipes, or from expo- 
sure to its influence in lead-factories, etc., a peculiar kind of 
chronic poisoning is produced, which shows itself in a variety 
of symptoms. The most usual form of lead-poisoning is colic, 
sometimes termed colica Pictonum, and painter s colic, which is 
characterized by sharp abdominal pains, with hardness and de- 
pression of the abdominal parietes, obstinate constipation, nau- 
sea, vomiting, etc. Dr. Earnest Harneck, from experiments 
on the lower animals, concludes that colica Pictonum is due to 
intense excitation of the intestinal ganglia by the lead, produc- 
ing arrest of peristalsis from spasm of the muscular coat, and 
recommends belladonna or atropina as affording speedy relief. 
Next in frequency is lead-arthralgy, in which there are severe 
pains in the limbs, attended by cramps, hardness and tension 



PREPARATIONS OF LEAD. 187 

of the painful parts. Lead-paralysis is another, though less 
common, variety of the disease, and is characterized by a loss 
of voluntary motion, owing to the want of contractility of the 
muscular fibres of the affected parts. It most frequently affects 
the upper extremities, and the extensor rather than the flexor 
muscles. Occasionally, functional disease of the brain is also 
observed as one of the consequences of lead-poisoning. The 
absorption of lead into the system is recognized by a saturnine 
coloration of the gums, of the mucous membrane of the mouth, 
and of the teeth. In a series of experiments made by the 
editor, the fact was established that the emanations from fresh 
lead paint do not contain lead. It seems proven, therefore, 
that in order to induce saturnine poisoning, actual contact is 
necessary with paint or lead in some form (Am. J. M. S., Oct., 
1878). The antidotal treatment of chronic lead-poisoning con- 
sists in the internal administration of solutions of sulphuric 
acid and of soluble alkaline and earthy sulphates, and in the 
use of baths of potassium sulphide, dissolved in warm water, 
by which the salts of lead, deposited on the skin, are converted 
into the insoluble sulphide. Potassium iodide is employed as 
an eliminative remedy. For lead-colic, a combination of ca- 
thartics and opiates has been employed ; but the best remedy 
is alum, in doses of 5j or 5ij, every three or four hours, dis- 
solved in some demulcent liquid. In the treatment of lead- 
palsy, strychnia and electricity may be used, but it is a very 
intractable form of the disease. The use of sulphuric acid 
lemonade is resorted to, by workmen in lead factories, as pre- 
ventive of lead-poisoning. Milk has been found also to answer 
the same purpose. By passing a strong solution of potassium 
or sodium sulphide, heated to the temperature of 212° F., 
through leaden pipes, the interior surface will become coated 
with an insoluble lead sulphide, and the water distributed through 
them wi-11 be free from contamination. 

Therapeutically, the preparations of lead are employed as 
astringents, sedatives, and desiccants. For internal use the 
acetate is almost exclusively employed. It is a most valuable 
remedy in hemorrhages, from its combined sedative and astrin- 



188 MATERIA MEDICA ASTRINGENTS. 

gent influence, and is also very serviceable in fluxes from the 
raucous membranes, particularly of the bowels. Topically, 
lead-washes are employed to relieve superficial inflammation, 
to arrest morbid discharges, and as desiccants. They are ob- 
jectionable, however, as eye-washes, from their often forming 
precipitates of lead upon the cornea. 

VlvmbiAcet as (Lead Acetate). This salt (Pb2C 2 H 3 2 3H 2 0), 
known also as saccharum saturni or sugar of lead, is made 
by immersing lead in distilled vinegar, or litharge in pyro- 
ligneous or crude acetic acid. It occurs in colourless, needle- 
shaped crystals, which effloresce on exposure to the air. They 
have an acetous odour and a sweetish, astringent taste, and 
are soluble in both water and alcohol. The mineral acids and 
their soluble salts, the alkalies and alkaline earths, and vege- 
table astringents, are incompatible with acetate of lead. The 
lead salts are aided in their depressing action upon the circula- 
tion by prolonged cold, ergot, veratrum viride, etc. ; in their 
astringent effect on the tissues by the salts of zinc, copper, bis- 
muth, etc. ; and in their depressing influence on nutrition by 
mercury, antimony, copper, and other metals which increase 
tissue waste. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of this salt are those of the 
saturnine preparations which have been already described. 
Its medicinal influence is sedative and astringent. In hemor- 
rhages it is employed internally, usually in combination with 
opium. This combination is also much resorted to in the treat- 
ment of diarrhoea, dysentery, and cholera, and may be pre- 
scribed with advantage to arrest the secretion of bronchitis and 
the night sweats of phthisis, and in the cure of internal aneu- 
rism. In yellow fever it is employed to check the hemorrhagic 
condition of the gastric mucous membrane. It is a dangerous 
remedy in chronic diseases, from the liability to lead-poisoning. 
As a topical remedy, acetate of lead, in aqueous solution, is 
extensively employed to relieve inflammation and diminish 
morbid discharges. Dose, gr. j or ij to gr. viij, two or three 
times a day. When applied to mucous membranes, the strength 
of the solution may be gr. ss to gr. j or ij to water f §j ; for 



PREPARATIONS OF LEAD. 189 

phlegmonous inflammation, 5ij to water Oj. Suppositories of 
lead (suppositoria plurnhi) (not officinal) contain each 3 grains 
of acetate of lead ; for suppositories of lead and opium, see 
p. 63. 

Liquor Ploibi Subacetatis (Solution of Lead Subacetate). 
This preparation, frequently termed Goulard's Extract, is an 
aqueous solution of the diacetate of lead (Pb 3 2 2C 2 H 3 2 ), and 
is made by boiling acetate of lead and litharge in distilled 
water. It is a colourless liquid which is decomposed on ex- 
posure to the air, with the formation of insoluble lead carbonate, 
and occasions a dense white precipitate with solution of gum. 
In other respects it resembles a solution of acetate of lead. 

Uses. — It is chiefly employed, diluted, to promote the reso- 
lution of external inflammation and arrest discharges from 
suppurating, ulcerated, and mucous surfaces. It may be ad- 
vantageously employed in the moist varieties of eczema, and 
also in acute cases accompanied with much heat. The officinal 
dilution is liquor plumbi subacetatis dilutus, commonly known 
as lead-water, and consists of solution f5iij to distilled water 
Oj. Ceratum plumbi subacetatis, or Goulard's Cerate, is made 
by mixing melted white wax with olive oil, afterwards adding 
Goulard's extract and camphor dissolved in olive oil; it is an 
admirable dressing to excoriated and blistered surfaces, bums, 
scalds, etc. Linimentum plumbi subacetatis (liniment of sub- 
acetate of lead) is made by mixing olive oil with Goulard's 
extract. 

Plumbi Iodidum (Lead Lodide) (Pbl 2 ) is made by the double 
reaction of solutions of lead nitrate and potassium iodide. It 
is a bright-yellow, heavy, inodorous powder, volatilizable by 
heat, sparingly soluble in cold water, but more soluble in 
boiling water. It is used chiefly to reduce the volume of in- 
dolent tumours, and may be given internally in the dose of 
gr. iij-iv, or more, in pill; but it is principally employed 
externally in the form of ointment (oj to ointment 5vij). 

Plumbi Xitras {Lead Nitrate) (Pb2X0 3 ), made by dissolv- 
ing litharge in diluted nitric acid, occurs in white, nearly 
opaque, octahedral crystals, permanent in the air, of a sweet, 



190 MATERIA MEDICA — ASTRINGENTS. 

astringent taste, and soluble in water and alcohol. It may be 
given internally, as a sedative astringent, in doses of gr. \ to 
gr. j, twice or thrice daily, in pill or solution. But its principal 
use is as a topical agent in the treatment of wounds, ulcers, 
and cutaneous affections. Dr. Fordyce Barker recommends it 
as an application to fissured nipples (gr. x in glycerin gj). 
The breast must be carefully washed before nursing. Ledoyens 
Disinfecting Fluid is a solution of nitrate of lead 5j in water 

Plumbi Oxtdum {Lead Oxide) (PbO), or Litharge, is pre- 
pared by blowing air through melted lead, and is obtained also 
in the process for extracting silver from argentiferous galenas. 
It occurs in minute yellowish or orange-coloured scales, insol- 
uble in water, and is never employed internally. It is some- 
times sprinkled over ulcers, but its chief use is in the prepa- 
ration of emplastrum plumbi, or lead plaster (called also 
diachylon), which is made by boiling litharge with olive oil in 
water, and is, chemically, a mixture of lead oleate and mar- 
garate. It serves as a basis for most of the other plasters. 
Emplastrum saponis (soap plaster), made by rubbing up soap 
with lead plaster, is an excellent discutient. Soap cerate is 
made by melting together soap plaster and yellow wax, and 
afterwards adding olive oil. 

Plumbi Carbonas (Lead Carbonate), or White Lead (2Pb 
C0 3 ,PbH 2 2 ), is manufactured in this country by exposing 
lead to the fumes of vinegar or acetic acid, carbonic acid being 
derived from the fermentation of tan, in which the pots con- 
taining lead are packed ; oxyacetate of lead, as formed, is 
converted into carbonate. It is a white powder, without smell 
or taste, and insoluble in water, and, as it occurs in commerce, 
is a compound of lead carbonate and hydrate (2PbC0 3 .Pb2HO). 
It is never administered internally, but it is employed as a dust- 
ing powder — though there is danger of its absorption. Un- 
guentum plumbi carbonatis (5j to ointment 5vij) is a good ap- 
plication to burns, etc. White paint is used for the same pur- 
pose, but when applied to a large surface it may produce lead- 
poisoning. 



ALUM. 191 



A LUMEN — ALUM. 



Alum is a double salt, an aluminium and potassium sulphate 
(K 2 A1 2 4S0 4 .-4H 2 0). It is manufactured from aluminous schist, 
and sometimes bj the direct combination of its constituents. 
It crystallizes in regular octahedrons ; but it is commonly found 
in the shops in large colourless, transparent crystalline masses, 
without any regular form. It has an astringent and sweetish 
acid taste ; by exposure to the air it slowly effloresces ; it is 
soluble in cold water, and more so in boiling water; and when 
heated it undergoes the watery fusion, swells up, and gives out 
its water of crystallization, and is converted into a white, 
spongy mass, called dried alum. The alkalies and their car- 
bonates, lime solution, magnesia and its carbonate, tartrate of 
potassium, acetate of lead, and tannic acid are incompatible 
with alum. It is aided in its action by the vegetable and min- 



eral astringents. 



Besides the potassium alum, there are varieties in- which the 
potassium is replaced by some other base, as ammonium or 
sodium; the officinal alum was formerly the sulphate of alu- 
minium and ammonium, but this has been superseded by potas- 
sium alum. 

Physiological Effects. — The immediate topical effect of alum' 
is that of a powerful astringent, in virtue of a chemical action 
on the tissues. When it is applied to a part in large quantities, 
the astriction is soon followed by irritation ; and thus, taken 
internally in excessive doses, it gives rise to vomiting, griping, 
purging, and even inflammation of the gastro-enteric mucous 
membrane. After its absorption it acts as an astringent on 
the system generally, and produces astriction of the tissues and 
fibres, contraction of the capillaries, and a diminution of secre- 
tion, thus producing constipation. It is eliminated chiefly with 
the faeces. After large doses, Orfila detected it in the urine of 
dogs. Death has resulted in man from dried alum ojss. 

Medicinal Uses. — Alum is employed internally in hemor- 
rhages, chronic diarrhoea, colliquative sweating, diabetes, etc., 
and it is sometimes combined with cubeb in the treatment of 



192 MATERIA MEDICA — STIMULANTS. 

gleet, gonorrhoea,' and leucorrhoea. It has also been given as 
an emetic in croup. Its use in lead-colic has been alluded to. 
As a topical remedy it is valuable as an astringent antiphlogistic 
in ophthalmia, diphtheria, tonsillitis, etc. ; to produce contrac- 
tion of the tissues, in relaxation of the uvula, prolapsus ani, 
etc. ; as a styptic in hemorrhages; and to arrest excessive se- 
cretion from the mucous surfaces. In hemoptysis and bron- 
chitis, a strong solution of alum may be applied by atomiza- 
tion. Dose, gr. x to 3j or 3ij, in powder or solution, or made 
into pills with some tonic extract, and combined with an aro- 
matic, as nutmeg, to prevent nausea. It may be agreeably given 
in the form of whey, prepared by boiling 5ij with milk Oj, and 
straining, of which the dose is f§ij- Topically, it is employed 
in the forms of powder, solution, and poultice, the latter of 
which is made by rubbing up whites of eggs with alum, and is 
applied to the eye in ophthalmia, between folds of linen. Dried 
alum (alumen exsiccatum) is employed internally in the dose of 
gr. v-x, and externally as a mild escharotic. 

Aluminii Sulphas (Aluminium Sulphate) (A1 2 3S0 4 ,18H 2 0) 
is employed externally as an astringent and antiseptic applica- 
tion to ulcers, an injection in gonorrhoea, etc. The aqueous 
solution is used to preserve bodies for dissection. A paste, 
made of a mixture of sulphate of aluminium and sp. nitrous 
ether, applied to the cavity of a carious tooth, is a good remedy 
for toothache. 



ORDER VI. — STIMULANTS. 

Stimulants are medicines which produce a rapid and tem- 
porary exaltation of the vital functions. Their influence is 
most conspicuous in conditions of morbid depression, when a 
marked tolerance of their action is established, and large 
amounts are borne. In health, when the powers of the system 
are at the normal standard, stimulants soon induce depression. 
Topically, they irritate and inflame the parts to which they are 
applied, and hence are classed with irritants. 

Stimulants are employed principally in disorders known as 



ALCOHOL. 193 

asthenic, and in all conditions of the system attended with 
exhaustion. From their action in arousing the energies of the 
nervous system, they exercise a control over many nervous 
disorders, particularly those of a spasmodic nature. They are 
also frequently given with a view to their action on some one 
or other of the secretions. As stimulants to the gastrointes- 
tinal canal, they are administered to promote digestion (when 
they are called stomachics) and to dispel flatulence (when they 
are known as carminatives). Topically, they are employed as 
rubefacients, vesicants, etc. 

The more powerful and rapid stimulants are called diffusible. 
In overdoses, they act as violent narcotics and sedatives. The 
diffusible stimuli usually employed are vinous and spirituous 
liquors and the preparations of ammonia. Vegetable stim- 
ulants which contain a volatile oil are termed aromatics, and 
are usually given as stomachics and carminatives. Their volatile 
oils are also employed as local irritants. 



DIFFUSIBLE STIMULANTS. 
ALCOHOL. 

Alcohol is a product which results from a process termed the 
vinous fermentation, in substances containing grape-sugar. At 
a temperature of 80° F., the presence of a fermenting body 
converts a solution of grape-sugar into alcohol and carbonic 
acid. Starchy substances, being convertible into grape-sugar, 
also yield alcohol. Alcohol is obtained from vinous or fer- 
mented liquors by repeated distillation. It is, chemically, an 
ethyl hydrate (C 2 H 5 HO). Officinal alcohol should be of the 
sp. gr. 0*820. • It is a colourless, inflammable liquid, wholly 
vaporizable by heat, and unites in all proportions with water 
and ether. Contamination of fusel oil or amylic alcohol may 
be detected by agitation with concentrated sulphuric acid, when, 
if the alcohol becomes coloured, the presence of the impurity 
is indicated in proportion to the depth of the colour ; or solu- 
13 



194 MATERIA MEDICA — STIMULANTS. 

tion of nitrate of silver, with exposure to a bright light, will 
convert fusel oil into a black powder. 

Physiological Effects. — Alcohol is the intoxicating ingredient 
of all vinous and spirituous liquors. Locally, alcohol acts as 
an astringent by hardening the albumen and condensing the 
tissues. It evaporates rapidly, causing a feeling - of coolness. 
When evaporation is prevented, it acts as an irritant (due to 
absorption and paralysis of the cutaneous vessels), and may 
even produce inflammation. When inhaled it may produce 
anaesthesia, stupor and death. Nervous system : when taken 
internally, in small doses, it stimulates the cerebral hemispheres, 
possibly by the hyperemia induced ; in large closes it causes 
excitement with impaired co-ordination of ideas ; and in excess- 
ive doses it produces coma. Small doses stimulate the spinal 
cord, while larger amounts weaken the centres governing auto- 
matic motion and co-ordination, and lessen the sensibility of 
the cutaneous nerves, especially that of the fifth pair of cranial 
nerves. Large doses paralyze the vaso-motor nerves, giving 
rise to dilatation of the arterioles, flushing of the surface, and 
sensations of heat. In inflammatory diseases, medicinal doses 
contract the arterioles by giving tone to the vaso-motor system, 
and prevent the migration of white corpuscles (Farquharson). 
In toxic doses, the nervous centres are involved in the follow- 
ing order : 1. The gray matter of the convolutions and the higher 
functions of animal life (shown by disordered intellection). 2. 
The basic ganglia (shown by disordered sensation and motion). 
3. The cerebellum (shown by disordered equilibration. This 
may be in part due to impairment of the muscular sense). 4. 
The spinal centres (shown by anaesthesia of the lower limbs, 
extending to the upper limbs and body, difficulty in performing 
automatic acts, impaired co-ordination, etc.). 5. The medulla 
oblongata (shown by labored breathing, and finally death from 
apnoea). Circulation : alcohol at first stimulates, but after- 
wards depresses, the cardiac^motor ganglia. . In small doses it 
increases the frequency of the cardiac beat, without affecting 
the force or rhythm, increasing the rapidity of the contraction 
and shortening the diastole (Parkes and Wollowicz), and also 



ALCOHOL. 195 

elevating the arterial tension (Bartholow). This is soon fol- 
lowed by slowing of the heart and lowered arterial tension, and 
if the dose has been larger, by weak and irregular contraction. 
Large doses depress and paralyze the cardiac muscle (Wood, 
H. C). Respiration is at first quickened, but afterwards 
slowed. In alcohol-narcosis the breathing is very slow, and 
death may result from apnoea. Temperature : small doses 
slightly elevate the temperature. If large amounts have been 
taken, the temperature is depressed, owing to the radiation of 
heat from the dilated cutaneous vessels, to lessened oxidation 
of tissue, and, in alcohol-narcosis, or in the case of animals, to 
muscular inactivity. The power of resisting cold is lessened 
by the habitual ingestion of alcohol. Secretion : the secre- 
tions are at first increased, then diminished. Alcohol dimin- 
ishes the quantity of urea, uric acid, sodium chloride, phos- 
phoric and sulphuric acids excreted in the urine. Sugar is 
sometimes found in the urine after the ingestion of alcohol. 
Small doses stimulate the liver, while larger amounts alter the 
quality of the bile, which may be profuse or scanty. The 
amount of carbonic acid exhaled from the lungs is diminished. 
Stomach : small doses increase the flow of gastric juice, by 
producing hyperemia, and thus stimulate the appetite and 
digestion. Large doses check the gastric secretion, precipitate 
the pepsin, and cause anorexia and nausea. When taken 
habitually, it produces a slow interstitial inflammation of the 
mucous membrane with hyperplasia of* the connective tissue 
elements, which, contracting, compress the gastric glands. The 
secretion will then be much diminished, and the mucous mem- 
brane will be covered with a ropy, glairy mucus. Blood : 
alcohol must be in a certain state of dilution before it can be 
absorbed. It is said to precipitate the albumen in the blood, 
but it must be in too diluted a condition to accomplish this, nor 
are the consequences of an occasional indulgence sufficiently 
serious to warrant this statement. It diminishes the power of 
the red corpuscle to carry oxygen, and changes the blood by its 
effect on the liver and digestion. Fat in the blood of drunk- 
ards is increased from 8-65 parts to 11 '7 parts per 1000 (Le- 



196 MATERIA MEDICA — STIMULANTS. 

cann). Scharlau found 30 per cent, more carbon in the blood 
of drunkards than in that of healthy persons. This is due to 
the avidity with which alcohol combines with oxygen, pre- 
venting the oxidation of the hydrocarbons. Muscular sys- 
tem : muscular power is weakened ; muscular sense diminished. 
Elimination : alcohol is eliminated unchanged by the kidneys, 
lungs, skin, and probably by the liver, traces having been de- 
tected in the bile by Dr. Percy. A portion of the alcohol 
(about oiij) disappears in the system, probably being oxidized. 
The symptoms of acute and of chronic poisoning by alcohol 
are too well known to need description. The treatment in 
cases of poisoning from alcohol is the same as that which is to 
be pursued in cases of poisoning from opium. Ammonia is a 
physiological antidote. Mania-a-potu is found in acute poison- 
ing from alcohol, and is due to the direct action of alcohol on 
a brain rather unaccustomed to its effects. It differs from de- 
lirium tremens, which is a delirium of trembling type found in 
chronic alcoholism. The habitual use of alcoholic narcotics in 
excess gives rise to a well-known train of mental and physical 
disorders : dyspepsia, visceral obstructions, cirrhosis of the liver, 
gout, dropsy, delirium tremens, paralysis, and even confirmed 
insanity. 

Medicinal Uses. — Alcohol, in the form of vinous and spirit- 
uous liquors, is employed to rouse and support the system in 
debility, asphyxia, syncope, the latter stages of acute attacks, 
typhoid and typhus fevers, asthenic and malignant diseases, 
exhausting hemorrhages and suppurations, gangrene, to coun- 
teract the effects of the bites of venomous reptiles, in delirium 
tremens, and in poisoning from digitalis, tobacco, and other 
narcotics; also as a stomachic in colic, flatulence, indigestion, 
nausea, etc. In typhoid and typhus fevers, alcohol probably 
acts as a physiological antidote to the blood-poison, and should 
be given in the very first stages of the fevers. Indeed, the 
early administration of the preparations containing alcohol 
furnishes our best means of counteracting the depressing action 
of disease in general. The true stimulant or supporting effects 
of alcohol probably depend upon its appropriation by the 



ALCOHOL. 197 

system through oxidation or other agency. In disease, large 
quantities are administered which cannot be recovered in the 
excretions. But in health, when the powers of the economy 
are* at the normal standard, it probably circulates in the blood 
unchanged, and accumulates in the viscera or is eliminated by 
the secretions. In wakefulness due to cerebral anaemia, a little 
alcohol at bed time will often produce refreshing sleep. Alco- 
hol should be given with food. As a topical application, 
alcohol is used to produce cold by its evaporation ; as a styptic ; 
to harden the cuticle over delicate parts ; and as a stimulant. 
Mixed with white of eggs, it forms a good coating to bed-sores. 

Alcohol Dilutum (Diluted Alcohol), or Proof Spirit, con- 
sists of equal parts of alcohol and distilled water, and has a 
sp. gr. 0*928. It is used exclusively for pharmaceutical pur- 
poses. 

Vinum (Wine). The fermented juice of the grape consists 
of water and alcohol in varying proportions, with fixed and 
volatile acids, sugar, oenanthic acid and ether, tannic, malic, 
and other acids, bitartrate of potassium, etc. Wine loses most 
of its cream of tartar by age. It is employed medicinally in 
typhus and typhoid fevers, exhausting chronic diseases, exten- 
sive suppurations, gangrene, etc. In typh-fevers it consti- 
tutes our chief therapeutic resource, and may be administered 
to the amount of one or two pints in the twenty-four hours, 
either pure or in the form of wine-whey. This is made by 
adding from a gill to half a pint of white wine to a pint of 
boiling milk, separating the curd from the whey, and flavouring 
with sugar and spices. 

The officinal wines are Vinum Album ( White Wine), con- 
taining between 10 and 12 per cent, of absolute alcohol by 
weight ; Vinum Album Fortis (Stronger White Wine), con- 
taining between 20 and 25 per cent, of absolute alcohol ; and 
Vinum Rubrum (Red Wine), containing between 10 and 12 
per cent, of absolute alcohol. Red wines are more astringent 
than white, as they contain more tannic acid. Port xoine con- 
tains tannic acid, and is used in dysentery, diarrhoea, etc., for 
its astringency. Madeira, which is the strongest of the white 



198 MATERIA MEDICA — STIMULANTS. 

wines, is an excellent stimulant, but may be objectionable from 
its acidity. Champagne is a pleasant stimulant where gastric 
irritability is present. Madeira and port contain about 23 per 
cent, of alcohol; sherry, 19 per cent.; champagne, 13 per 
cent. As articles of diet, the stronger wines, when used in 
excess, often produce gout, dropsy, and diseases of the kidneys 
and liver ; and except in advanced age and in feeble constitu- 
tions, or where the tuberculous diathesis exists, cannot but be 
considered as objectionable. 

Spiritus Yini G-allici [Brandy) is obtained by the distil- 
lation of wine. It contains about 50 per cent, of alcohol, with 
water, volatile oil, tannic acid, colouring matter, etc. It is the 
best stimulus where a rapid and decided impression is called 
for, as in collapse, syncope, etc. ; and, from the tannic acid 
which it contains, is useful in bowel complaints. Spiritus 
Frumenti ( Whisky), obtained from fermented grain by distil- 
lation, is of about the same alcoholic strength as brandy, and 
may be substituted for it ; it does not contain tannic acid. 
Rum [Spiritus Sacchari), the ardent spirit obtained from sugar, 
is more sudorific than brandy. Gin [Spiritus Juniperi) is 
corn spirit flavoured with oil of juniper ; and owing to the oil 
of juniper which it holds in solution, it is an active diuretic as 
well as stimulant and stomachic. Arrack, the spirit of East- 
ern countries, is prepared from a fermented infusion of rice. 
Spiritus Myrcia [Spirit of Myrcia), bay rum, the spirit 
obtained by distilling rum with the leaves of myrcia acris, is a 
refreshing local application. 

The malt liquors are useful where permanent stimuli are 
called for, as in diseases tending to emaciation, chronic ab- 
scesses, etc. The best are porter and ale. 

Extractum Malti [Extract of Malt) is officinal. It is made 
by macerating and then digesting coarsely-powdered malt with 
water, straining and evaporating the fluid thus obtained to the 
consistence of a thick honey. It has a yellowish-brown colour 
and the sweet taste of malt. It contains some dextrine, sugar, 
bitter and aromatic substances, and is used as a tonic in debility 
and nervous exhaustion. It possesses little advantages over 



PREPARATIONS OF AMMONIA. 199 

good malt liquors. It is used as a vehicle for cod-liver oil. It 
aids the digestion of starch by promoting its conversion into 
dextrine and glucose. It may be given in doses 5j-jv after 
meals. 

AMMONIA PR^PARATA — PREPARATIONS OF 
AMMONIA. 

Ammonia (sometimes termed volatile alkali) is a gaseous 
compound of hydrogen and nitrogen (NH 3 ), which is found 
abundantly as the result of the decay of organic substances, and 
is usually obtained by the action of lime on sal ammoniac (or 
ammonium chloride). It has a pungent odour, and is very solu- 
ble in water ; it is a powerful stimulant and local irritant, but 
is rarely used in medicine. 

Physiological Effects. — Locally, ammonia acts as an irri- 
tant, causing vesication, and, after prolonged contact, sloughing of 
the surface. When inhaled it produces inflammation of the 
laryngeal and bronchial mucous membranes, and may cause 
pneumonia. Nervous system : when injected into the veins of 
animals it causes convulsions, due to stimulation of the motor 
centres of the spinal cord and of its reflex functions. Circu- 
lation : after intravenous injection, a momentary fall in the 
arterial pressure takes place, followed by a decided and sudden 
rise (not due to any action on the vaso-motor nerves, as it 
occurs after section of the cord), and a corresponding increase 
in the rapidity of the pulse from stimulation of the accelera- 
tors of the heart (Wood, H. C). Blood : it prevents coagu- 
lation of the blood, assists in retaining the fibrogenous materi- 
als in solution, and impairs the function of the red corpuscles 
as oxygen-carriers. Respiration : when injected into the veins 
the respiratory act is greatly accelerated. Elimination : it is 
probably, to a great extent, oxidized in the system, and is 
eliminated as nitric acid, and perhaps as urea, by the kidneys. 
The effects just described are produced also by the following 
preparations of ammonia, which are employed as diffusible 
stimuli : 



200 MATERIA MEDICA — STIMULANTS. 

Aqua Ammonite Fortior (Stronger Ammonia Water). 
This is an aqueous solution of ammonia of the specific gravity 
0-900. It is a colourless liquid, wholly volatilizable by heat, of 
a caustic, acrid taste and a very pungent odour of ammonia ; 
and is too strong for medicinal use, internally, in its unmixed 
state, containing 28 per cent., by weight, of gaseous ammonia. 
It is a powerful corrosive poison, for which the diluted acids, as 
vinegar, lemon juice, etc., are the proper antidotes. It is used 
externally as a vesicant, and has. the advantage over canthari- 
des of a more speedy operation and non-affection of the urinary 
organs, but is a very painful application. 

Aqua Ammonia (Ammonia Water) has a specific gravity 
of 0*959, containing 10 per cent., by weight, of ammonia, and 
is employed as a stimulant, sudorific, antacid, and rubefacient. 
As a stimulant, ammonia is admirably adapted for speedily 
rousing the action of the vascular and respiratory systems, 
especially when it is an object at the same time to promote the 
action of the skin. For this purpose it is employed in low 
forms of disease, particularly in the typhoid exanthemata, in 
syncope, in asphyxia from narcotic poisons, and to counteract 
the effects of the. bites of venomous reptiles. In dyspepsia it 
is useful with a view to the relief of both acidity and flatulence. 
For internal use other preparations of ammonia are generally 
preferred, and this is used chiefly as a rubefacient. Dose, in- 
ternally, ten to thirty drops, largely diluted. As a rubefacient, 
the officinal liniment may be used. 

Spiritus Ammonlze (Spirit of Ammonia) is a solution of 
ammonia in alcohol. It is given as a stimulant, antispasmodic, 
and carminative, in the dose of ten to thirty drops, diluted with 
water. But a pleasanter preparation, with similar proper- 
ties, is 

Spiritus Ammonia Aromaticus (Aromatic Spirit of Am- 
monia). This is a solution of ammonium carbonate, oil of lemon, 
oil of nutmeg, and oil of lavender, in water and alcohol. It is 
a very agreeable antacid stomachic and stimulant, and may be 
given in the dose of thirty drops to f5j, or more, diluted with 
water. 



PREPARATIONS OF AMMONIA. 201 

Ammonii Carbonas {Ammonium Carbonate) (NH 4 HC0 3 . 
NH 4 NH 2 C0 2 ) is prepared by subliming a mixture of ammonium 
chloride and chalk. It occurs in whitish, transparent masses, 
wholly dissipated by heat, of a pungent, ammoniacal odour, an 
acrid, alkaline taste, and is soluble without residue in water. 
On exposure to the air it becomes opaque, falls into powder, 
and deteriorates by the loss of ammonia. 

Effects and Uses. — Its indications are the same as those of 
solution of ammonia, to which it is preferred for internal ex- 
hibition as a diffusible stimulant. It is especially valuable in 
pneumonia, and by some therapeutists is relied on to the ex- 
clusion of other medication in this disease. It has also been 
recommended in threatened thrombosis, as in the puerperal 
state, etc. Dose, gr. v to xx, in pill, or preferably in solution 
with gum and sugar. Mixed with some aromatic oil (as that of 
bergamot or lavender), it is used as a smelling salt in syncope, 
hysteria, etc. 

Phosphorus is obtained from the phosphate of calcium of 
bone-ash, by removing the lime with sulphuric acid, and after- 
wards deoxidizing the residuum by heating with charcoal. It 
is a translucent, highly inflammable, nearly colourless solid, 
resembling wax, without taste, but having a peculiar garlicky 
smell; sp. gr. 1*8. It is insoluble in water, and dissolves 
sparingly even in the oils, ether, and alcohol, but is readily 
soluble in chloroform. It emits, when exposed to the air, white 
fumes, which are luminous in the dark. 

Physiological Effects. — Locally : when applied to the skin, 
phosphorus may produce inflammation, ulceration, or even gan- 
grene. The fumes of phosphorus are irritating to the conjunc- 
tival and respiratory mucous membrane, and may produce 
necrosis of the maxillae, if the person exposed has caries of the 
teeth. Nervous system : in small doses, phosphorus is a tonic 
and stimulant to the nervous system, aiding in the repair of 
waste. Circulation : it stimulates the circulation, increasing 
the frequency and fullness of the pulse, and producing dilata- 
tion of the cutaneous capillaries. Large doses depress and 



202 MATERIA MEDICA — STIMULANTS. 

weaken the cardiac action. Temperature: it first elevates, 
then lowers, the bodily heat (the latter being due to the dilata- 
tion of the cutaneous capillaries, and consequent increase in 
radiation and evaporation from the surface). Secretion : it in- 
creases the urinary secretion and the relative proportion of 
urea excreted, and gives the urine an odour of violets. It 
stimulates the skin and increases the perspiration. In poison- 
ing from phosphorus, albuminurea and haematurea have been 
observed. Osseous system : it stimulates the formation of bone, 
especially of the compact tissue. Elimination : phosphorus 
passes out of the system by the liver and other glands, by the 
pulmonary mucous membrane, and by the skin. 

Poisoning : when taken in large doses, or for a considerable 
time, phosphorus acts as a gastro-intestinal irritant, causing 
vomiting, purging, and abdominal pain. The blood is rendered 
more fluid, coagulation prevented, and the corpuscles are altered 
in form and found to contain fat. Hemorrhages take place or 
ecchymoses form in the serous and cutaneous surfaces, due to 
the changes in the blood and to fatty degeneration of the capil- 
laries and arterioles. The liver undergoes fatty degeneration 
(giving rise to jaundice), as do also the other tissues, notably 
the muscles. Death has been caused by gr. jss of phosphorus. 
Antidotes : in cases of poisoning from phosphorus, after the 
administration of an emetic, magnesia should be given, suspend- 
ed in large quantities of mucilaginous drinks. Copper sulphate 
should be given in small doses, for its emetic action, and also 
as a chemical antidote. The bowels should be emptied, and 
the oil of turpentine administered as an antidote ; it should be 
old, as the real antidote is oxygen presented in the state of 
ozone in oxygenated oil of turpentine ; oxygenated water has 
been also used ; oils and fats are to be avoided. 

Uses. — In medicinal doses, phosphorus is a valuable stim- 
ulant and tonic to those tissues in which it is normally found, 
and has been employed with advantage in cases of nervous ex- 
haustion and degeneration of nerve tissue, and especially in 
neuralgia. It is administered with benefit in osteomalacia and 
rickets, and has proved useful in some cases of pernicious 



AROMATICS. 203 

anaemia. It is one of the best remedies we possess in functional 
impotence, and Las been given in certain cutaneous affections, 
as lupus, psoriasis, etc. The dose of phosphorus is gr. gVrV 
The officinal preparations are: pUulm phosphori (phosphorus 
pills) ; each pill contains gr. y^ ; oleum phosphor alum (phos- 
phorated oil), a solution of phosphorus (1 part) in ether (9 parts) 
and almond oil (90 parts) ; dose, from 5 to 20 drops. 

The Phosphide of Zixc (P 2 Zn 3 ), prepared by subjecting 
fragments of zinc and phosphorus together to ebullition in a 
retort, through which a current of dry carbonic acid has been 
previously passed, has been lately employed in cases where the 
administration of phosphorus is indicated. It occurs as a gray, 
crystallized body, unaltered by moist air, and easily decomposed 
in the stomach, with the evolution of phosphuretted hydrogen. 
It has been found efficacious in eczema, psoriasis, and other 
cutaneous affections. Dose, about gr. 2V _ i- 

AROMATICS. 

Aromatics owe their virtues to the presence of oils obtained 
from them by distillation, and termed volatile oils (plea vol- 
atilia), sometimes also distilled and essential oils. These oils 
possess, in a high degree, the odour and taste of the plants 
from which they are procured. Locally, they are powerful ir- 
ritants, and, taken into the stomach in overdoses, act as acrid 
poisons. They pass partially into vapour at ordinary temper- 
atures, and are completely volatilized by heat; hence, decoc- 
tions and extracts are improper preparations of the aromatics. 
The distilled oils are inflammable, very slightly soluble in 
water, but soluble in alcohol and ether. Their ultimate con- 
stituents are, usually, carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen ; and on 
exposure to the air they gradually absorb oxygen, become 
thicker, less odorous, and of a deeper colour, and are finally 
converted into resins. The effects and uses of most of the 
members of this group are similar. In medicinal doses they 
are used as carminatives, and are combined with purgatives to 
prevent griping. Most of them are also useful as flavouring 



204 MATERIA MEDICA — AROMATICS. 

ingredients. To many of the volatile oils emmenagogue vir- 
tues have been ascribed ; but these effects are only produced 
by poisonous doses. Locally, they are used as rubefacients, 
antiseptics, and to allay neuralgic pains. 



CAPSICUM. 

Capsicum or Cayenne pepper is the fruit of Capsicum fas- 
tigiatum and other species of Capsicum (Nat, Ord. Solanacese), 
American tropical plants, naturalized in most warm climates, 
and cultivated in our gardens. C. fastigiatum is a small shrub, 
with a crooked, branching stem, producing in each fork two or 
three fruits from one-half to three-quarters of an inch long, of 
a subconical form and crimson or yellow colour. These pods, 
when dried and ground, form capsicum, the best of which is the 
African. Powdered capsicum has a bright-red colour, which 
fades upon exposure to light, an aromatic, peculiar smell, and 
a bitterish, acrid, burning taste. A principle termed capsaicin, 
slightly soluble in water, but very much so in alcohol, ether, 
and oil of turpentine, exists in capsicum, associated with resin 
and fixed and volatile oil. 

Effects and Uses. — Locally, capsicum acts as an irritant, 
and vesication may be produced by prolonged contact with the 
skin. Circulation : it increases the action of the heart. Se- 
cretion: it stimulates the glands with which it comes in contact, 
and increases the flow of the saliva and the gastric and intes- 
tinal juices. Elimination: it passes out of the system by the 
kidneys, increasing the flow of urine, and sometimes producing 
vesical tenesmus and aphrodisiac effects. In large doses it acts 
as a gastro-intestinal irritant. Contra-indications : capsicum 
should not be given in acute inflammatory affections of the 
stomach, intestines or genito-urinary apparatus. Capsicum is 
principally employed as a condiment and stomachic, and is 
very useful in torpid conditions of the digestive organs, or as 
an adjunct to other remedies to rouse the susceptibility of the 
stomach. Its constitutional effect is not in proportion to its 
local effect, and it is therefore of no great efficiency as a dif- 



CINNAMON. 205 

fusible stimulant. It has, however, been recommended in 
cynanche maligna and scarlatina anginosa. It is a good 
stomachic in the dyspepsia of drunkards. As a gargle, it is 
much employed in the sore throat of scarlatina, and also as a 
cataplasm to cause counter-irritation. Dose of the powder, gr. 
v to gr. x, in pill; of the tincture (5j to diluted alcohol Oij), 
H|x-5j ; of the fluid extract (f §j is equal to (nearly) §j of 
powdered capsicum), TT(v-x. The oleoresin is a powerful ru- 
befacient, and may be given internally in the dose of a drop. 
A plaster is also officinal. 

PIPER — BLACK PEPPER. 

Black pepper is the unripe fruit of Piper nigrum (Nat. 
Ord. Piperacese), a vine of the East Indies. The berries are 
gathered before they are quite ripe, and dried in the sun. 
They are wrinkled and black, in consequence of the drying 
of the pulp over the grayish-white seed, and in this state are 
known as black pepper. If permitted to ripen, and soaked in 
water till the outer coat is removed, they constitute ivhite 
pepper. Pepper has an aromatic, peculiar odour and a hot, 
spicy, pungent taste. Its properties are taken up' by alcohol 
and ether, and partially by water. It contains a volatile oil, 
an acrid resin, an alkaloid called piperina (C 17 H 19 N0 3 ), which 
has been used as an anti-intermittent remedy, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of pepper are similar to those 
of capsicum. It is a warm carminative stimulant, chiefly em- 
ployed as a condiment ; but it is also a useful stomachic, and 
a good adjunct to cinchona in the treatment of intermittent 
fevers. Dose, gr. v to gr. xx. Of the oleoresin the dose is 
1-3 drops. Piperina is officinal. It may be prescribed in 
doses of gr. ij-iv. 

CINNAMOMUM — CINNAMON. 

There are two varieties of cinnamon — Ceylon cinnamon, 
which is the inner bark of the shoots of Cinnamomum zey- 
lanicum, a tree of Ceylon and Java ; and China cinnamon, or 



206 MATERIA MEDICA — AROMATICS. 

cassia, the bark of the shoots of one or more undetermined 
species of Cinnamomum (Nat. Ord. Lauracese), trees of China. 
The most esteemed is the Ceylon cinnamon. To obtain this, 
the hark is peeled from branches which are three years old ; 
the epidermis is afterwards scraped off; the smaller quills are 
introduced into the larger ones, and they are then dried in the 
sun and made into bundles. It is found in the shops in long, 
cylindrical pieces, which are very thin and smooth, and of 
a yellow-brown colour and a splintery fracture. It has a 
fragrant odour and a warm, sweetish, aromatic, slightly 
astringent taste. Its constituents are volatile oil, tannic acid, 
mucilage, sugar, mannite, etc. The greater part, however, of 
the cinnamon brought to this country is the cassia cinnamon. 
It has the general appearance, smell, and taste, of true cin- 
namon ; but its substance is thicker, its texture coarser, its 
fracture shorter, its colour darker, browner, and duller, and 
its flavour less sweet and more pungent and astringent. Its 
properties are identical with those of the Ceylon variety. 

^Effects and Uses. — Cinnamon is an aromatic stimulant, with 
a slight astringency. It is used chiefly as a carminative, and 
as an addition to other medicines. Dose, gr. x to 5ss ; of the 
tincture (§iij to 3 parts of alcohol with 2 parts of water Oij), 
the dose is f 5j to f5iij- Oleum cinnamomi (oil of cinnamon) 
is of a light-yellow colour, which deepens by exposure to the 
air, with the development of an acid, termed cinnamic ; dose, 
one or two drops. Aqua cinnamomi (cinnamon water) is used 
as a vehicle for other medicines. Spiritus cinnamomi (spirit 
of cinnamon) contains 10 parts of the oil dissolved in 90 parts 
of alcohol ; dose, ten to twenty drops. Cinnamon enters into 
a large number of preparations. 



MYRISTICA NUTMEG. 

MACIS MACE. 

These products are portions of the fruit of Myristica fra- 
grans (Nat. Ord. Myristicaceae), a tree of the Moluccas, culti- 



CLOVES. 207 

vated also in Java and Sumatra and other parts of the East 
Indies, and introduced into the isles of France and Bourbon 
and several of the West India islands. It bears a pyriform 
fruit about the size of a small peach, which has a fleshy peri- 
carp, opened by two longitudinal valves. Within this is the 
arillus, a scarlet reticulated membrane, which, when dry, 
becomes yellow-brown and brittle, and is termed mace. The 
kernels of the fruit are the nutmegs. They are oval, of 
the size of an olive, of a grayish-brown colour, marked with 
furrows ; and to preserve them from the attacks of an insect, 
they are steeped in a mixture of lime and water. Mace has a 
pleasant, aromatic smell and a warm, bitterish, pungent taste. 
Nutmegs have a delightfully fragrant odour and a warm, 
aromatic, grateful taste. Nutmeg contains a volatile oil (con- 
sisting of myristicene, C 10 H 16 , and a little myristicoll, C 10 H 14 O), 
fixed oil, starch, proteids, etc. From mace, also, a volatile oil, 
etc., is obtained. 

Effects and Uses. — Nutmeg is one of the most agreeable of 
the aromatic stimulants, and is much employed for its carmin- 
ative virtues, also as a flavouring ingredient, and to obviate the 
griping effects of cathartics. It is said to have narcotic prop- 
erties, and hence may be useful in bowel complaints. Mace is 
chiefly employed as a condiment. Dose of either, 3j to 5ss. 
Oleum myristieoz {oil of nutmeg) is of a pale straw-colour; 
dose, 2 or 3 drops. Spiritus myristicai is made by dissolving 
3 parts of the oil in 97 parts of alcohol ; dose, f 5j or f 5ij. 

CARYOPHYLLU S — C LOVES. 

Cloves are the unexpanded flowers of Eugenia caryophyl- 
lata (Nat. Ord. Myrtaceae), an evergreen tree of the Moluccas. 
They are from five to ten lines long and from one line to one 
line and half thick, the corolla forming a ball or sphere at the 
top, and the calyx a tapering, somewhat quadrangular base, 
resembling a nail, whence the common name, from the French 
clou. When good, they are of a dark-brown colour, with a 
yellowish-red tint; they have a strong, fragrant odour, a hot, 



208 MATERIA MEDICA — AROMATICS. 

acrid taste, and, when pressed with the nail, should give out 
oil. They contain a highly pungent volatile oil, tannic acid, 
resin, etc., and two crystalline principles, termed caryophillin 
and eugenin ; the oil consists of a hydrocarbon (C 10 H 16 ) and a 
colourless oil termed eugenol or eugenic acid (C 10 H 12 O 2 ). 

Effects and Uses. — Cloves are among the most stimulating 
of the aromatics, but are used chiefly as a flavouring ingredient 
and as a condiment. Dose, gr. v to gr. x. The oil, oleum 
caryophylli, is pale or yellowish, becoming darker by age ; dose, 
3 to 6 drops. 

P I M E N T A P I M E N T 0. 

Pimento, called also Allspice, is the unripe BERRiES # of 
Eugenia pimenta (Nat. Ord. Myrtaceae), a handsome evergreen 
tree of the West Indies and South America. It comes exclu- 
sively from Jamaica, and consists of round, brown, roughish 
berries, rather larger than black peppercorns, with an external 
hard, brittle shell, inclosing two dark-brown seeds. They have 
an aromatic, agreeable smell and a strong clove-like taste. 
They are principally used as a condiment. The oil, oleum 
pimento?, has a brownish-red colour, and consists of a hydro- 
carbon and eugenic acid * dose, 3 to 6 drops. 

Oleum Cajuputi (Oil of Cajeput). The volatile oil of the 
leaves of Melaleuca cajuputi (Nat. Ord. Myrtacese), a tree of 
the Moluccas, is a powerful diffusible aromatic stimulant, much 
employed in Eastern countries, and of late coming into use in 
the United States. It is a transparent oil, of a fine green 
colour, a lively, penetrating odour analogous to that of cam- 
phor and cardamom, and a warm, pungent taste. It is an 
admirable stomachic for the relief of nausea, and is used also 
as an antispasmodic stimulant in low fevers, spasmodic cholera, 
etc. ; dose, 1 to 5 drops. 

OLEUM TEREBINTHIN^] OIL OF TURPENTINE. 

Oil of turpentine, commonly called spirit of turpentine, is 
obtained by distillation from the turpentine of Pinus australis 



OIL OF TURPENTINE. 209 

and other species of Pinus (Nat. Ord. Coniferse). When pure 
it is a limpid, colourless, volatile, and inflammable liquid, of a 
strong, penetrating, peculiar odour and a hot, pungent, bit- 
terish taste. It is lighter than water, very slightly soluble in 
it, less soluble in alcohol than most other volatile oils, and 
readily soluble in ether. 

Effects and Uses. — Locally, it produces irritation, and, 
shortly, inflammation of any tissue with which it comes in con- 
tact. Nervous system : moderate doses stimulate, while large 
amounts paralyze, the inhibitory reflex functions and vaso- 
motor system. Large doses cause giddiness, exhilaration, and 
finally (sometimes) coma. Circulation: moderate amounts 
increase the force and frequency of the pulse and elevate the 
blood pressure ; while, after large doses, the pulse is feeble 
and rapid, arterial tension is decidedly lowered, and the heart 
is finally paralyzed. Respiration is at first increased, but after- 
wards diminished, as to frequency. Secretion : when given in 
moderate doses, it stimulates the kidneys and increases the 
amount of urine. In large doses the urine is diminished, 
often bloody and sometimes suppressed. Gastro-intestinal 
tract : in large quantities it causes vomiting and purging, with 
pain and a sense of heat. Genito-urinary system : large 
amounts produce strangury, priapism, and constant efforts at 
micturition. Elimination : it is eliminated by the broncho- 
pulmonary mucous membrane and by the kidneys. The lethal 
dose is not determined. Oil of turpentine is contraindicated 
in cardiac hypertrophy, atheroma of the vessels, and acute in- 
flammatory diseases of the kidney. It is incompatible with 
cardiac depressants. Its action is aided by alcoholic and dif- 
fusible stimuli. Oil of turpentine is stimulant, diuretic, blen- 
norrhetic, and anthelmintic, and externally, rubefacient. As 
a stimulant, it is a very valuable remedy in typhoid fever, 
particularly where the abdomen is tympanitic, the tongue dry, 
and the bowels are ulcerated. It is employed also with ad- 
vantage in morbid discharges from mucous membranes, hemor- 
rhages, rheumatism, nervous disorders, atonic dropsy, gleet, 
14 



210 MATERIA MEDICA — AROMATICS. 

nephritic and calculous affections, and as an anthelmintic in 
taenia. Enemata of the oil of turpentine are particularly ser- 
viceable for the relief of tympanites. Externally, it is used 
for purposes of counter-irritation. 

Dose, as a stimulant or diuretic, five to thirty drops, re- 
peated ; as an anthelmintic or as an enema, f§ss to f§ij. 

ZINGIBER — GINGER. 

Ginger is the rhizome of Zingiber officinale (Nat. Ord. Zin- 
giberaceae), a perennial herbaceous plant, growing to the height 
of two or three feet. Its native country is unknown; but it 
has been cultivated in Asia from time immemorial, and was 
early introduced into the tropical regions of America. Ginger- 
root occurs in flattish, jointed, branched or lobed pieces, which 
rarely exceed four inches in length. In the young state, the 
roots are preserved in sugar, and form a very pleasant sweet- 
meat. When old, they are taken up, scalded in hot water, and 
dried, when they are known as black ginger. Sometimes they 
are scraped previously to being dried, and are then called 
white or Jamaica ginger. The former comes from the East 
Indies ; the latter from the West Indies. The powder of black 
ginger is yellowish-brown ; that of white ginger yellowish- 
white. Both varieties have a powerful odour and a warm, 
pungent, aromatic taste. They impart their virtues to water 
and alcohol, and contain a pale-yellow volatile oil, resin, 
starch, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — Ginger is a pungent, aromatic stimulant, 
much employed as a stomachic in flatulency, and spasm of the 
stomach and bowels. It is used also as a condiment, and to 
correct the unpleasant taste and nauseating qualities of other 
medicines. A paste made of the powder and warm water is 
used as a counter-irritant. Dose, gr. x to gr. xx, in pill. 
The officinal preparations are : tincture — dose, 5ss-i ; fluid 
extract — dose, 20 to 30 drops ; syrup — used as a vehicle for 
other medicines ; oleoresin — dose, 1 to 2 drops ; and troches 



CALAMUS. 211 

(made by mixing the tincture with tragacanth. sugar, and a 
little syrup of ginger). 



CAUDA MO MUM — CARDAMOM. 

Cardamom is the fruit of Elettaria cardamomum (Nat. 
Ord. Zingiberacese), a perennial plant, from six to nine feet 
high, found in the mountainous parts of Malabar. Three 
varieties of Malabar cardamoms are known in commerce : 
shorts, short-longs, and long-longs, all furnished by the same 
plant. They are ovate-oblong, from three to ten lines long, 
coriaceous, ribbed, and of a grayish or brownish-yellow colour, 
and contain a number of blackish or reddish-brown seeds, 
which have a pleasant, aromatic odour and a warm, aromatic, 
agreeable taste. They yield a colourless volatile oil, a fixed 
oil, starch, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — Cardamom is a very agreeable aromatic, 
devoid of acridity, and is much employed as a stomachic and 
carminative, and as an adjuvant and corrective of other med- 
icines ; dose, gr. v-x. The tincture (ojv to diluted alcohol Oij) 
is the preparation chiefly used; dose, f3j or f5ij. The com- 
pound tincture contains cardamom, and also caraway, cinna- 
mon, cochineal, diluted alcohol, and glycerin. 

Pulvis Aromaticus (Aromatic Powder) consists of cinna- 
mon and ginger, each two parts, cardamom and nutmeg, each 
one part. Dose, gr. x to xxx. 



CALAMUS. 

The rhizome of Acorus calamus (Nat. Ord. Aracese), an 
indigenous marshy plant, with long, sword-shaped, radical 
leaves (giving out a delicious fragrance when rubbed), is a 
valuable aromatic stimulant, with some tonic properties. It is 
found in the shops in somewhat flattened pieces, deprived of 
their epidermis, wrinkled, and of a yellowish colour, and has a 
strong, fragrant odour and a warm, bitterish, aromatic taste. 



212 MATERIA MEDICA — AROMATICS. 

Fig. 16. 




It contains volatile oil, aeorin (probably a glucoside), resin, 
starch, etc. Dose, 3j to 5j- A fluid extract is officinal ; or it 
ma j be given in infusion (5j to boiling water Oj) — not officinal. 



GAULTHERIA. 



Gaultheria procumbens, Partridge-berry, Deer-berry, or Tea- 
berry {Nat. Ord. Ericaceae), is a small indigenous evergreen 
plant, with reddish stems, a few inches in height, bright-green 



BITTER ORANGE PEEL — SWEET ORANGE PEEL. 213 

leaves, and white, ovate, five-toothed flowers, followed by scar- 
let berries. The leaves are the officinal portion, and contain 
a very stimulant volatile oil (oleum gaultherice), which, when 
first distilled, is colourless, but gradually becomes reddish, and 

Fig. 17. 




is distinguished as being the heaviest of the volatile oils ; and, 
also, arbutin, ericolin, urson, tannin, sugar, etc. The officinal 
preparations are the oil and the spirit (containing 3 parts of 
the oil in 100 of the preparation). An infusion of the leaves 
is in very general popular use as a carminative and stomachic. 



AURANTII AMARI CORTEX — BITTER-ORANGE PEEL. 
AURANTII DULCIS CORTEX — SWEET-ORANGE PEEL. 

The rind of the fruit of Citrus vulgaris, or Bitter Orange, 
and Citrus aurantium, or Sweet Orange (Nat. Ord. Auranti- 
acese), is much employed as a flavouring addition to other 
medicines. They contain volatile oils, hesperidin (C 10 H 16 — a 



214 MATERIA MEDICA — AROMATICS. 

bitter crystalline glucoside), etc. The flowers (aurantii flores) 
yield a delightful volatile oil termed oil of neroli (officinal). 
The following are the officinal preparations : orange-flower 
water {aqua aurantii florum), an agreeable vehicle, possessing 
slight antispasmodic virtues ; syrup of orange flowers and syrup 
of orange peel are used as excipients and vehicles for medi- 
cines of unpleasant flavour ; oil of orange peel ; fluid extract of 
bitter-orange peel ; spirits of orange peel ; elixir of orange. peel. 
The tincture of bitter-orange peel and tincture of sweet-orange 
peel may be given in doses of f 5i-ij- 

The following aromatics, of the natural order Labiate, are 
pleasant carminatives and stomachics : 

Lavandula [Lavender). The elowers of Lavandula vera, 
a small European shrub, cultivated in our gardens, about two 
feet high, with fragrant blue flowers, which are gathered in 
June, and dried in the shade. They have an agreeable, fra- 
grant odour and a pungent, bitter taste. They contain volatile 
oil, resin, a little tannin, etc. The oil (oleum lavandulce 
florum), which is of a pale-yellow colour, or the oil of lavender 
(oleum lavandulce — a volatile oil distilled from the whole herb), 
may be used in the dose of from one to five drops. But the 
preferred preparations are the spirit (spiritus lavandulce) 
and the compound spirit (spiritus lavandulce compositus), 
which contains also oil of rosemary, cinnamon, cloves, nut- 
meg, and red saunders ; dose, f5j. 

Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) and Mentha Viridis 
(Spearmint) are European plants, naturalized in the United 
States. The leaves and tops are employed ; they have an 
aromatic odour and a pungent, somewhat bitter taste, fol- 
lowed by a sensation of coolness. Mentha viridis contains a 
volatile oil, gum, resin, etc. ; Mentha piperita a volatile oil (con- 
sisting of C 10 H 13 O and a crystallizable substance termed men- 
thol, C 10 H 20 O), a little tannin, resin, etc. One to five drops of 
the oils may be given ; but they are usually administered in the 
form of spirit in the dose of ten to twenty or forty drops. A 
water is also used. The oil of peppermint is the stronger of 



OIL OF THYME. 215 

the two, and is strongly recommended asan anodyne applica- 
tion in allaying neuralgic pains in herpes zoster (Meredith : 
London Practitioner, August, 1882). Troches of peppermint 
are made by rubbing up oil of peppermint with sugar and 
mucilage of tragacanth. Peppermint also enters into the com- 
position of vinum aromaticum. 

Rosmarinus (Rosemary). Rosmarinus officinalis, or Rose- 
mary, a European evergreen shrub, cultivated in our gardens, 
contains a very stimulant volatile oil, which is chiefly used as 
an ingredient of rubefacient liniments. It is also used in 
making spiritus odoratus (cologne water). The leaves are 
used. They enter into vinum aromaticum. 

Hedeoma [Pennyroyal). Hedeoma pulegioides, or Penny- 
royal, is an indigenous annual plant, about a foot high, with 
oblong- lanceolate, serrated leaves, and small, pale-blue flowers, 
arranged in axillary whorls. The leaves and tops are used, 
which contain a light-yellow essential oil, similar in properties 
to the mint oil, but somewhat more powerful. 

Origanum. The herb of Origanum vulgare, or common 
Marjoram. The essential oil is an ingredient in stimulating 
liniments, but is not officinal. Origanum enters into vinum 
aromaticum. 

Marrubium (Horehound). Marrubium vulgare possesses 
combined stimulant, tonic, and expectorant properties, and, in 
large doses, proves laxative. It is used chiefly in cough syrups 
and candies. The leaves and tops are employed. 

Salvia (Sage). The leaves of Salvia officinalis, a European 
plant, cultivated in our gardens, are used as a condiment, and 
may be used, in infusion (§ss to boiling water Oj), as a gargle 
in sore throat and relaxed uvula ; they are slightly tonic and 
astringent, as well as aromatic. It is an ingredient of vinum 
aromaticum.. 

Oleum Thymi (Oil of Thyme). The oil distilled from the 
Thymus vulgaris is often substituted for oil of origanum, and 
is used as an external application. The oil of thyme consists 
of cymene (C 10 H 14 ), thymene (C 16 H 16 ), and thymol (0 10 H u O), 
occurring in highly aromatic white crystals, which has been 



2l6 MATERIA MED1CA — AROMATICS. 

found a valuable antiseptic and antifermentative agent. (See 
Antiseptics.) 

The following aromatic seeds are derived from plants of the 
natural order Umbelliferse : 

F(ENICULUM {Fennel). The fruit of Foeniculum vulgare, 
a European plant, cultivated in our gardens. It may be used 
in infusion ; the dose of the oil is 5 to 15 drops. Fennel water 
is officinal. 

Carum [Caraway). The fruit of Carum carvi, a Euro- 
pean plant, cultivated in this country. Dose of the oil, 1 to 10 
drops. 

Anisum (Anise). The fruit of Pimpinella anisum, orig- 
inally a native of Egypt, but now cultivated throughout the 
south of Europe. Dose of the oil, 5 to 15 drops. Anise water 
(aqua anisi) and spirit of anise are officinal. 

Coriandrum (Coriander). The fruit of Coriandrum sa- 
tivum, an annual plant of the south of Europe. The oil is 
officinal. 

Illicium (Star Anise). The fruit of the Illicium anisatum 
(Nat. Ord. Magnoliaceae), an evergreen tree of China and 
Japan, is officinal. It contains a volatile oil (which is chem- 
ically identical with the oil of anise, but has a slightly different 
odour and taste), fat, resin, etc. (Maisch). The oil possesses 
analogous properties to those of the oil of anise, and is much 
used as a substitute for it. 



vanilla. 

This is the fruit of Vanilla planifolia (Nat. Ord. Orchida- 
cese), a climbing plant of Cuba and Mexico, cultivated also in 
various parts of tropical America, in the Mauritius, Reunion, 
and Java. The pods, when gathered, are yellow, but by ex- 
posure to the sun - they assume a dark copper colour. They 
are cylindrical, somewhat flattened, wrinkled, six or eight 
inches long, three or four lines thick, and contain a soft black 
pulp, in which numerous small black seeds are embedded. 



ACONITE. 217 

Vanilla has a strong characteristic, highly pleasant odour 
and a warm, aromatic, sweetish taste ; the interior pulpy por- 
tion is most aromatic. The odorous principle of vanilla is 
vanillin (C 8 H 8 3 ) ; it is thought that this is developed in the 
curing of the pod, as it is found only in the interior and not 
in the exterior fleshy portion. It is a mild diffusible stimulant, 
chiefly used, however, as a perfume and flavouring ingredient. 
The tincture is officinal. 



ORDER VII. — SEDATIVES. 

Sedatives are medicines which diminish the frequency of the 
action of the circulation. Their therapeutic influence is, prob- 
ably, of a stimulant character ; while abating irritability and 
relieving irregularity of the action of the heart, their primary 
effect is to restore its force and tone when morbidly depressed. 
They are employed therapeutically to reduce excitement of the 
vascular system. 

With sedatives may be included also the medicinal agents 
termed refrigerants, comprising nearly all the neutral alkaline 
salts, as well as those in which the acid predominates, and the 
vegetable acids. These substances have little power of dimin- 
ishing the ordinary or healthy temperature ; but they lower 
febrile heat, allay thirst, restore the secretions, and in this 
way are very useful adjuvants in the treatment of febrile com- 
plaints. 

ACONITUM — ACONITE. 

Aconite (the root of the Aconitum napellus) is one of the 
most highly valued sedatives which we possess. The leaves 
are not used. The officinal preparations are the abstract (gr. j 
equals gr. ij of the powdered root) ; extract (alcoholic) ; fluid 
extract (VT^ j corresponds (nearly) to gr. j of the powder) ; and 
the tincture. Aconite has been considered under the head of 
Narcotics. See page 85, et seq. 



218 MATERIA MEDICA — SEDATIVES. 

VEEATRUM VIRIDE — AMERICAN HELLEBORE. 

Veratrum viride, known as American Hellebore, Swamp 
Hellebore, Poke-root, Indian Poke, etc. \Nat. Ord. Melantha- 
cese), is a swampy plant, indigenous to the eastern portion of 
the United States, growing to the height of from three to six 
feet. It has a perennial thick, fleshy root, the upper portion 
of which is tunicated, the lower solid and beset with numerous 
rootlets ; the stem is annual, furnished with bright-green 
leaves, and terminates in a panicle of greenish-yellow flowers ; 
the leaves gradually decrease in size as they ascend, the lower 
being from six inches to a foot long, oval, acuminate, plaited, 
nerved, and embracing the stem at their base, the upper leaves 
oblong-lanceolate. The rhizome and rootlets are the officinal 
portions. The rhizome is an inch or two in length, thick and 
fleshy, with numerous yellow rootlets, and is found usually in 
the shops in slices or fragments, externally of a blackish colour 
and internally of a dingy-white colour. It is inodorous, but 
has a bitter, acrid taste, which leaves a permanent impression 
on the mouth and fauces. For use, attached portions of the 
dried stem should be rejected, as they are inert. 

The most recent analysis of this rhizome shows it to contain 
veratroidia and jervia (the latter found also in V. album), rubi- 
jervia, pseudojervia, with resin and oily matter. Some author- 
ities state that it contains also veratria, but this is still an 
open question. Veratroidia is a white, uncrystallizable pow- 
der, of a bitter taste, leaving a tingling sensation in the fauces, 
soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform, and carbon bisulphide ; 
jervia is a white, tasteless powder, which will crystallize from 
an alcoholic solution, insoluble in water and ether, and freely 
soluble in alcohol and chloroform. 

Physiological Action. — Veratroidia is an emetic, and some- 
times a cathartic, and a depressant to the circulation. Nervous 
system : in animals poisoned by veratroidia, twitching and 
finally convulsions are-produced ; the reflex spinal centres are 
at first depressed, afterwards paralyzed. Circulation: applied 
directly to the heart, it paralyzes the cardiac muscle. When 



AMERICAN HELLEBORE. 



219 



Fie:. 18. 




given hypoderrnically to animals, it at first lessens the rapidity 
of the pulse and lowers the arterial pressure (due to stimulation 



220 MATERIA MEDICA —SEDATIVES. 

of the inhibitory nerves) ; soon, however, the heart's beat be- 
comes greatly increased in force, but not in frequency, and 
the blood pressure falls to normal ; then suddenly the pulse 
becomes very rapid, and the cardiac force is lessened (due to 
peripheral paralysis of inhibitory nerves), and the tension rises 
much above the normal (caused by increasing asphyxia) (Wood, 
H. C). Respiration : in animals poisoned by veratroidia, 
death is caused by asphyxia, due to paralysis of the respiratory 
muscles. Muscular system : there is great muscular weakness 
in poisoned animals. Gastrointestinal tract: veratroidia is 
an irritant, causing violent vomiting and purging in poisoned 
animals. 

Jervia produces general weakness (without, however, vomit- 
ing or purging), lowering of arterial pressure and slowness of 
the pulse, profuse salivation, and finally convulsions. Locally, 
jervia is a feeble irritant. Nervous system : the effects of 
jervia are similar to those of veratroidia, but, in addition, the 
vaso-motor nerves are paralyzed. Circulation : when applied 
directly to the heart (of the frog), it paralyzes it. When an 
animal is poisoned with jervia, the frequency of the pulse is 
diminished, and the arterial pressure falls greatly, due to the 
direct action of the drug on the cardiac muscle, as well as to 
paralysis of the vaso-motor centres. Respiration: death takes 
place from asphyxia. The alkaloids exist, in both V. viride 
and album, in but small proportions, and can scarcely be 
profitably extracted. 

The effects of veratrum viride are similar to those of its 
alkaloids. It is an active local irritant. Taken internally, it 
somewhat promotes the flow of urine, and in doses of about 
five grains, proves emetic. In continued doses it produces a 
marked sedative action on the circulation, irrespective of the 
nausea induced, which indeed may be prevented by careful 
administration. The temperature of the body is much lowered. 
It has not generally proved laxative. No fatal effects are 
recorded from its use — stimulants invariably counteracting any 
excessive sedation. Recovery has taken place after f §j of the 
tincture had been swallowed. 



VERATRIA. 221 

Uses. — Within a few years past, this medicine has been 
largely used in our southern States in inflammatory and 
febrile aifections, particularly typhoid fever and pneumonia, 
with a view to its sedative action ; as the danger, however, in 
pneumonia is chiefly from failure of cardiac power, the use of 
veratrum in this disease requires caution. It has been also 
used in cardiac affections and in gout, rheumatism, and neural- 
gia. It has been recommended lately in puerperal eclampsia, 
on account of its depressing influence on the reflex centres of 
the cord, by Dr. N. L. Guice, of Mississippi. He gives it 
hypodermically, in doses sufficiently large to reduce the pulse 
to 60 or 80 beats per minute and maintain this effect. A few 
drops of the tincture repeated every hour or two, according to 
the condition of the pulse, will abort an ordinary "cold in the 
head," if given early enough (H. M.). Dose, of the poivder, 
gr. i-ij to begin with ; of the tincture, 8 or 10 drops ; of the 
fluid extract, 4 or 5 drops. 

Veratria (C 32 H 52 N 2 8 ) is usually obtained from Cevadilla, 
the seed of Asagraea officinalis (Nat. Ord. Melanthaceae), an 
herbaceous plant of Mexico. It is made by evaporating a 
strong tincture of the seeds to the consistence of an extract, 
from which the alkaloid is dissolved by diluted sulphuric acid, 
and afterwards precipitated by magnesia. For purification, it 
is dissolved in alcohol, from which it is evaporated, again con- 
verted into a sulphate, decolourized by animal charcoal, and 
finally precipitated by ammonia. When pure it is white, but 
it is usually a grayish or brownish-white powder, without odour, 
but very irritant to the nostrils, and of a bitter, acrid taste, 
producing a sense of tingling or numbness in the tongue ; 
scarcely soluble in cold water, but readily soluble in alcohol. 
It has an alkaline reaction, and strikes an intensely red colour 
with concentrated sulphuric acid. The most delicate test for 
veratria is Trapp's — a permanent lilac-red colour, resembling 
a solution of permanganate of potassium, afforded by boiling 
it in muriatic acid. 

Physiological Effects. — Locally, veratria acts as an irritant, 
producing heat, pain, numbness, and perhaps redness in the 



222 MATERIA MEDICA — SEDATIVES. 

part to which it is applied. Nervous system : the reflex ex- 
citability of the spinal cord is diminished in animals after the 
administration of a large dose (Ott). Veratria acts as a direct 
poison upon nerves (Ott, Wood, H. C, and others), but 
whether it affects the nerve trunk or its end-organs is still 
sub judice. Circulation and blood : in animals, small doses 
stimulate the excito-motor cardiac ganglia and increase the 
frequency of the cardiac beat ; large doses stimulate the pneu- 
mogastric nerve, and as the excito-motor ganglia become ex- 
hausted, the cardiac beat is slowed. It also poisons -the cardiac' 
muscle. The blood pressure is, at first, elevated, then lowered, 
and the blood is rendered less coagulable. Respiration and 
temperature : small doses increase, while larger doses dimin- 
ish, the frequency of the respiratory movement, and the tem- 
perature is lowered. Excretion: the excretions from the skin 
and kidneys are increased. Gastro-intestinal tract : in large 
doses it is an irritant poison, causing severe vomiting and 
purging. Muscular system : muscular irritability is at first 
exalted (producing convulsions), but is afterwards entirely 
lost. Elimination : it is eliminated by the kidneys. 

Stimulants and ethereal inhalation would be the proper treat- 
ment in case of poisoning. „ 

Uses. — Veratria has been used internally, in nervous dis- 
orders, dropsies, gout, rheumatism, etc., in doses of gr. y 1 ^ to 
■J repeated ; but it is most used externally, in the form of oint- 
ment (gr. xx to lard a troyounce), or dissolved in alcohol, as 
an application to rheumatic, paralytic, or neuralgic parts. 
Oleatum veratria? (oleate of veratria) consists of veratria 2 
parts to 98 parts of oleic acid. 



PULSATILE A — P ASQUE-FLOWER. 

The herb of Anemone pulsatilla, Anemone pretensis and 
Anemone patens {Nat. Ord. Ranunculacese), found in both 
hemispheres. It should be collected soon after flowering and 
carefully preserved, but should not be kept more than a 



YELLOW JASMINE. 223 

year. It contains an acrid, volatile oily substance, easily con- 
verted into anemonin, C 15 H 12 6 , and amnionic acid, C 15 H 14 7 
(Maisch). 

Physiological Effects. — Locally, fresh pulsatilla is an irri- 
tant, and after prolonged contact with the skin may cause in- 
flammation or even gangrene. When the powder is inhaled it 
produces itching of the eyes, colic, vomiting, diarrhoea, etc. 
(Phillips). Nervous system : motor and sensory paralysis are 
produced, but how they are produced has not been ascertained 
(Bartholow). After poisonous doses there are dilatation of 
the pupil, sopor, coma, and convulsions. Circulation : Pulsa- 
tilla is a cardiac depressant and lowers the arterial pressure. 
Respiration and temperature : it slows the respiration (Clarus) 
and reduces the temperature. Gastro-intestinal tract : it is an 
irritant poison, in large doses producing vomiting and purging. 
Elimination probably takes place through the kidneys. In- 
compatibles: caustic alkalies, tannic acid, and the metallic salts. 

Medicinal Uses. — Pulsatilla may be used in catarrhal in- 
flammations of the mucous membranes unaccompanied with 
gastro-intestinal disturbance (Bartholow). It is, however, rec- 
ommended by Phillips in certain forms of dyspepsia, seen in 
persons of phlegmatic, temperament, accompanied with great 
nervous depression, loss of appetite, thickly-coated white 
tongue, nausea, flatulence, heartburn, cold, clammy extremi- 
ties, etc. It is useful in acute meningitis, whether cerebral or 
spinal (Bartholow). It has also been recommended in func- 
tional amenorrhoea, when the menses are delayed or scanty, 
in suppressio mensium from fright or chill, and in functional 
dysmenorrhcea when the discharge is scanty. Dr. Piffard rec- 
ommends very small doses, frequently repeated, in epididy- 
mitis. The powdered herb may be given in doses of grs. ij-v, 
or an extract or tincture may be made. 

GELSEMIUM — YELLOW JASMINE. 

Gelsemium sempervirens, Yellow or Carolina Jasmine {Nat. 
Ord. Loganiacese), is a beautiful climbing plant of our south- 



224 MATERIA MEDICA — SEDATIVES. 

ern States, with a twining, smooth, and shining stem, peren- 
nial, dark-green leaves, and beautiful, very fragrant flowers, of 
a deep-yellow colour. The rhizome and rootlets are officinal. 
The true root is hard and woody, slightly undulated in outline, 
sparingly branched, externally of a pale-brown colour, smooth, 
and furnished with a thin scurfy cuticle, slightly cracked lon- 
gitudinally. The stem is rougher externally, and is distin- 
guished from the root by a small central cavity, representing 
the pith. The stem should be rejected. The root has a bitter 
and pleasant flavour, and an odour somewhat between those of 
seneka and green tea. It contains an alkaloid, termed gelse- 
mia or gelsemina, combined with an acid called gelseminie 
(identical with sesculin), a volatile oil, and acrid resin, etc. 
The alkaloid is a powerful poison, an amount of gelsemium 
estimated to contain one-sixth of a grain of gelsemina having 
proved fatal to an adult woman. 

Effects and Uses. — Gelsemium has been found to possess 
valuable sedative properties, diminishing the pulse and press- 
ure, reducing the temperature of the body, lessening respira- 
tion, and dilating the pupils, with little or no nauseating or 
purgative effect. It paralyzes first the motor and then the 
sensory ganglia. In overdoses, it has rapidly produced death, 
with great muscular relaxation, want of co-ordination in the 
movements, double vision, dilatation of the pupils, failure of 
the pulse and respiration, coldness of the surface, and finally 
unconsciousness preceding death. It has been used in fevers, 
inflammations, essential spasmodic affections, as tetanus, and 
as an hypnotic in delirium tremens and other forms of morbid 
wakefulness, and as an anodyne in odontalgia and facial neu- 
ralgia. Bartholow recommends gelsemium in acute inflamma- 
tions of the lungs and pleura, especially in pneumonia and 
pleurisy. He gives the fluid extract Tt|v~ x every two hours 
" to maintain a constant effect within the limits of safety." 
The tincture of gelsemium is the form which has been here- 
tofore employed, in the close of 20 to 50 drops; but the fluid 
extract should be preferred, dose 5 to 10 drops ; a fluidrachm 
of this has proved fatal. 



ARNICA. 225 

ARNICA. 
Arnicae Flores, Arnica Flowers ; Arnicse Radix, Arnica Root. 

Arnica montana, Leopard's Bane (Nat, Ord. Compositae), is 
a perennial herbaceous plant, found in northern Germany and 
other northern countries of Europe, and also in the northwest- 
ern portions of America. The flower heads and the rhi- 
zome and rootlets are the officinal portions. Both contain 
volatile oil, arnicin, resins, etc. ; the root contains, in addition, 
inulin and tannin. 

Effects and Uses. — Locally, arnica is a stimulant and often 
an irritant to the skin. The internal effects of this drug are 
not well understood. Large doses cause headache and dilata- 
tion of the pupils ; poisonous doses paralyze the nervous sys- 
tem, and death ensues from collapse. Small doses are said to 
increase the cardiac action, but this has been doubted (Wood, 
H. C). Large doses depress the action of the heart, lower 
the arterial pressure, and depress the respiration and temper- 
ature. Small doses are said to excite the action of the skin 
and kidneys. In large amounts it is an irritant to the gastro- 
intestinal tract, producing nausea, vomiting and purging of a 
choleraic character. Large doses also cause great muscular 
weakness. 

It may be used internally, in fevers and acute inflammatory 
affections, as a sedative and antipyretic (Bartholow). 

In mania with a tendency to imbecility, when the excitement 
has diminished, and in melancholia, it is highly recommended 
(Bartholow, Schroder Van der Kolk, quoted by Phillips). In 
delirium tremens with depression it is of great value (Bartho- 
low). It has also been used in the treatment of rheumatism 
with success. In this country, however, it is principally used 
externally, in the form of fomentation or lotion, for the relief 
of bruises, sprains and local paralysis. The extract of the root 
(alcoholic) is given in doses of gr. v-x. The fluid extract of 
the root is given in doses of TT]v-xx. This is chiefly used, 
however, in making a plaster (emplastrum arnicce). The tinc- 
ture of the root and the tincture of the flowers . may be given 
15 



226 MATERIA MEDICA SEDATIVES. 

in doses of TT|y-xxx. They are often used externally com- 
bined with soap liniment. In applying arnica externally, the 
irritating qualities of the drug should be borne in mind. 

PHYTOLACCA. 
Phytolacca Bacca, Phytolacca Berry; Phytolacca Radix, Phytolacca Root. 

Phytolacca is the fruit and ROOT of the Phytolacca decandra 
(Wat. Ord. Phytolaccacese), commonly known as Poke-Berries 
and Poke-Root. It is a perennial herb, indigenous to North 
America, growing to the height of four to eight feet, and found 
in waste places. The young stems, collected in the spring and 
boiled, are sometimes eaten at table. The root contains resin, 
starch, tannin, etc. ; the berries contain sugar, gum, colouring 
matter, etc. No active principle has been isolated. 

Effects and Uses. — Phytolacca paralyzes the motor centres 
of the cord and medulla. In overdoses it causes dimness of 
vision, coma and sometimes convulsions (Stille' and Maisch), 
and death is produced by paralysis of the respiratory centre. 
Phytolacca depresses the cardiac action and also the respira- 
tion (Bartholow), and produces nausea and vomiting, which 
does not take place for an hour after the drug is administered, 
and which is accompanied by great depression. Purging also 
takes place, and Rutherford found it to be a powerful hepatic 
stimulant, increasing the secretions of bile. It is eliminated 
by the kidneys. 

Phytolacca has been used with success as an alterative in the 
treatment of rheumatism, and has been especially recommended 
when the rheumatism is of syphilitic origin (Stille' and Maisch). 
It has also been used, both internally and by injection, in the 
treatment of hemorrhoids. It is useful in inflammations of 
the breast to allay the inflammation and prevent suppuration, 
and possibly may exert a like influence on other inflamed 
glands (Bartholow). 

It is recommended as a local application to leg ulcers and 
eczema, and also in scabies and tinea capitis (J. Bigelow, 
quoted in Piffard's Mat. Med. and Therapeutics of the Skin). 



STAPHISAGRIA. 221 

It should not be used as an emetic, because of the great de- 
pression which it induces. Dose of the powder, gr. j-xxx ; or 
a tincture (ojv-Oj) or fluid extract may be used, dose, TTjy-5j. 
For local use, an ointment may be prepared (5j-oj). These 
preparations are not officinal. 

STAPHISAGRIA. 

Staphisagria, Stavesacre or Licebane is the SEED of the 
Delphinium staphisagria [Nat. Ord. Ranunculaceee), a beautiful 
biennial plant, with terminal racemes of blue flowers, native 
of southern Europe. It contains two alkaloids, delphinia 
(C 24 H 35 NO 20 ) and staphisaina (C 16 II 23 N0 2 ); also fixed oil, etc. 

Physiological Effects. — When applied to the skin delphinia 
acts as a rubefacient and even irritant. When delphinia is 
given internally to animals it causes convulsions, and finally 
clonic spasm ; the reflex centres of the cord are paralyzed 
(Cayrade, quoted by Yon Boeck in Ziemssen's Cyclopaedia) 
and cutaneous anaesthesia is produced (Falck and Rorig), and 
finally the respiratory centre is paralyzed, causing death from 
asphyxia. The effects on the circulation are most marked. 
It slows the cardiac action and paralyzes the heart by a direct 
action on the muscle and nervous supply of the heart (Falck 
and Rorig, L. Van Praag and others, quoted by Von Boeck, 
op. cit.). It causes dyspnoea and slows the respiratory move- 
ments. Delphinia paralyzes the voluntary muscles. It causes 
salivation and induces vomiting (an early symptom), due to 
irritation of the end-organs of the pneumogastric nerve. It is 
eliminated by the bowels and kidneys, producing constipation 
and difficult urination during excretion (Albers, Schroff). 
Staphisaina also causes death by asphyxia ; but its action on 
the nervous system and circulation is said to be less marked. 

Medicinal Uses. — Staphisagria has been used with some 
success in the reflex vomiting of pregnancy and sea-sickness. 
Phillips recommends it in obstinate facial neuralgia, ophthalmia 
tarsi, and as an emmenagogue in amenorrhcea. It is chiefly 
used, however, as a local paraciticide in phthiriasis and scabies. 



228 MATERIA MEDICA SEDATIVES. 

Dose of the powder, gr. j-iij ; or a tincture (1 part to alcohol 
5 parts — dose, TT[x-xv) or fluid extract may be made. The 
ointment (digest 5ij of bruised seed in lard gj and strain while 
hot) is the best form for external use. None of these prepa- 
rations are officinal. 



ANTIMONII PRJ1PARAT A — P REPARATIONS OF 
ANTIMONY. 

Antimonii Oxidum {Antimonious Oxide) (Sb 2 3 ) is a heavy 
grayish-white, insoluble powder, having the general therapeutic 
properties of the antimonials, and though not quite certain in 
its effects — as its solubility depends on the amount of hydro- 
chloric acid which may exist in the stomach — it is believed to 
produce the sedative operation of tartar emetic, with less 
nausea and derangement of the stomach. Dose, gr. ij-iij, 
repeated. 

Antimonii et Potassii Tartras (Antimonium and Po- 
tassium Tartrate). This salt, familiarly known as tartar 
emetic and tartarized antimony, is prepared by boiling water 
and cream of tartar with oxide of antimony. It occurs in 
colourless, transparent, rhombic, octahedral crystals, which 
become white and opaque from efflorescence on exposure to the 
air. When pure its powder is perfectly white ; but it is to be 
preferred in the crystalline state, as in this form it is less liable 
to adulteration. When dropped into a solution of sulphuretted 
hydrogen or ammonium sulphide, the crystals should have an 
orange-coloured deposit formed on them, which is antimonious 
sulphide, and is distinguished from arsenious sulphide and all 
other precipitates by forming with hot concentrated muriatic 
acid a solution from which, when added to water, a white curdy 
precipitate of antimonious oxychloride is thrown down. The 
metal itself should, however, always be reduced, as by Marsh's 
test (see Arsenious Acid) ; antimoniuretted hydrogen is ob- 
tained, which burns with a bluish flame ; and if a piece of cold 
white porcelain be held low down in the flame, the metal is 
deposited in the form of a dull black spot (surrounded by a 



PREPARATIONS OF ANTIMONY. 229 

grayish ring), soluble in ammonium sulphide, which does not 
dissolve arsenic, and insoluble in a solution of sodium or cal- 
cium hypochlorite, which readily dissolves arsenical spots. The 
powder of tartar emetic is sometimes adulterated with cream 
of tartar, which may be detected by adding a few drops of a 
solution of carbonate of sodium to a boiling solution of the 
antimonial salt, and if the precipitate formed be not redissolved, 
no potassium bitartrate is present. 

Tartar emetic (2KSbC 4 H 4 7 ,H 2 0) is inodorous ; has a nau- 
seous, metallic taste ; is soluble in 15 parts of cold and 3 parts 
of boiling water ; insoluble in pure alcohol ; and is decom- 
posed by the alkalies, alkaline carbonates, and the vegetable 
astringents. 

Physiological Effects. — Tartar emetic is a powerful local 
irritant. Applied to the skin, it occasions an eruption of pus- 
tules, resembling those of variola or ecthyma. When taken 
into the stomach, in full doses, it causes vomiting, purging, 
griping pains, etc., and in excessive quantity it acts as an 
irritant poison, and has produced death, with great prostration, 
syncope, diminution of reflex irritability, and even convulsions 
and delirium : very large doses have, however, been given 
medicinally with entire safety. The proper antidote is tannic 
acid; and opium, stimulants, and demulcents should be also 
administered. The constitutional effects of tartar emetic, when 
taken internally in small doses, are an increase in the secre- 
tions and exhalations generally, especially from the skin ; the 
amount of carbonic acid exhaled by the lungs is increased ; the 
amount of urine excreted is lessened, but the urea is much in- 
creased (Ott) ; after large doses albuminurea is often seen ; in 
somewhat larger doses, these effects are accompanied with nausea 
and vomiting, relaxation of the tissues (particularly the mus- 
cular fibres), a feeling of great feebleness and exhaustion, and 
at first a stimulant, later a powerful sedative, action on the 
circulation and respiration, the cardiac action becoming slow, 
weak and finally irregular, and the arterial tension being low- 
ered. It acts on the heart by depressing the excito-motor 
nerves and paralyzing the cardiac muscle. After poisonous 



230 MATERIA MEDICA — SEDATIVES. 

doses the red blood corpuscles are altered in form, and, together 
with the albumen, are diminished in amount, in the blood of 
animals ; the fibrin is increased (Ott). The temperature of 
the body is lowered. In small, repeated doses, continued for 
some time, it produces fatty degeneration of the liver. It is 
eliminated by the bile, milk, perspiration and urine, also by 
the bronchial mucus and the intestinal secretions. Elimination 
is slow. The minimum fatal dose for an adult is gr. ij ; for a 
child, gr. f (Phillips). 

Medicinal Uses. — Tartar emetic is employed therapeutically 
as an emetic, nauseant, sedative, sudorific and expectorant, 
and locally as a counter-irritant. It is to be used with great 
caution on account of the prostration which it produces, and 
should never be given to young children, nor when gastro- 
enteric inflammation is present. It should only be used in 
sthenic cases in robust adults. As an emetic, it creates more 
nausea and depression than any other substance ; and hence, 
while other emetics are to be preferred to it, when our object 
s merely to evacuate the contents of the stomach with as little 
constitutional disturbance as possible, it is of value when vom- 
iting is resorted to as a means of making an impression on the 
system and thereby checking the progress of disease. As a 
nauseant, tartar emetic was employed to relax the muscular 
system in the reduction of dislocations, strangulated hernia, 
etc., but has been superseded by anaesthetics. It is sometimes 
used to relax the rigidity of the os uteri in labour. As a sed- 
ative antiphlogistic, in large doses it is a most powerful 
remedy in the treatment of acute inflammation, with fever, 
from its combined action in reducing the frequency of the 
circulation, moderating the heat of the skin, and promoting 
diaphoresis. When given in this way, at intervals, tartar 
emetic ceases to produce emesis, owing to tolerance of the 
medicine, especially in pneumonia, in which disease it has 
been extensively resorted to. It is probably inferior to other 
sedatives, as aconite, etc. In the early stages of acute lar- 
yngitis and bronchitis, it is a remedy of great value. From 
gr. yV to gr. J may be given every two hours, in gradually 



PREPARATIONS OP ANTIMONY. 231 

increasing doses, until some amelioration of the symptoms 
takes place, when the doses are to be again decreased. As a 
diaphoretic, it is very useful, in small doses (as from gr. y 1 ^ to 
gr. J, repeated), in continued fevers, inflammation from wounds, 
injuries, etc. ; and as an expectorant, in the same doses, it is 
employed in various pulmonary affections with advantage. As 
a local irritant, it is sometimes applied to the skin in the form 
of aqueous solution, ointment, or plaster, in chronic diseases 
of the chest, affections of joints, etc.; but this is rarely needed, 
and is in many cases injurious. 

Administration. — The dose of tartar emetic, as an emetic, is 
gr. j or ij, and it is frequently combined with ipecacuanha. 
As a sedative antiphlogistic, gr. J or J to gr. j or ij. As a 
nauseant, gr. \ to \, and as a diaphoretic and expectorant, gr. 
T 1 ^ t° \, may be given in solution, and in each case repeated 
every two or three hours. It is advantageous combined with 
small doses of morphia, when decided diaphoresis is aimed at. 

Vinum Antimonii (Antimonial Wine) is a solution of tartar 
emetic (gr. xxxij) in boiling distilled water (fsj) and stronger 
white wine (foxv). It is employed as an expectorant and 
sudorific, in the dose of from 10 to 30 drops, frequently re- 
peated ; and as an emetic for children, in the dose of 30 drops 
to f oj? repeated every quarter of an hour. Other emetics are 
to be preferred. 

Antimonii Sulphidum (Antimonious Sulphide), the native 
sulphide, purified by fusion, and Antimonii Sulphidum Puri- 
ficatum (Purified Antimonious Sulphide), the finely-powdered 
sulphide washed repeatedly with water, macerated in ammonia 
water, and again repeatedly washed in distilled water, are used 
in making the other preparations. 

Antimonium Sulphuratum (Sulphurated Antimony) is 
prepared by boiling the purified sulphide of antimony with a 
solution of soda, and adding diluted sulphuric acid to the 
strained solution ; the sodium sulphate which is formed being 
afterwards washed away with hot water. It is a reddish- 
brown, odourless, almost tasteless, insoluble powder, and is 
chemically a mixture of antimonious sulphide (Sb 2 S 3 ) and 



232 MATERIA MEDICA — SEDATIVES. 

oxide (Sb 2 3 ). Its effects are analogous to those of tartar 
emetic; but it is chiefly employed as an alterative in cutaneous 
affections, secondary syphilis, etc., usually in conjunction with 
mercurials. Dose, as an alterative, gr. j to iij ; as an emetic, 
gr. v to xx. 

Pilulce Antimonii Composites {Compound Pills of Antimony), 
sometimes called Plummers Pills, contain equal parts of sul- 
phurated antimony and of calomel, mixed with twice the amount 
of guaiac and mucilage of tragacanth each. They are used as 
an alterative in syphilitic, rheumatic and cutaneous affections. 
Six* grains of the mass contain a grain of calomel and antimony 
each. 

Pulvis Antimoniaiis. — An antimonial powder is prepared in 
imitation of the celebrated James's powder, by mixing anti- 
monious oxide (1 part) with precipitated calcium phosphate (2 
parts). It is a white, gritty, tasteless, odourless powder. It 
was formerly much employed in fevers. Dose, gr. iij-viij. 

POTASSII NITRAS — POTASSIUM NITRATE. 

This salt, commonly called nitre and saltpetre (KN0 3 ), 
occurs in both the inorganic and organic kingdoms of nature. 
It is obtained, for medicinal use, principally by the purification 
of the native nitre of India ; and it is found also in saltpetre 
caves in various parts of the United States, associated with 
calcium nitrate, from which it is separated by lixiviation. 
It is artificially produced in several parts of Europe, in nitre 
beds or saltpetre plantations, by bringing together decayed 
organic animal and vegetable matters. And it is manufactured 
sometimes by the double decomposition of sodium nitrate 
and potassium chloride. Nitre is refined by re-solution and 
crystallization of the crude nitre. As purified for medicinal 
use, it is found in the shops in large transparent, colourless 
crystals, of the form of six-sided striated prisms, with dihedral 
summits, which are unalterable in the air. They have no 
odour, a sharp, cooling taste, are wholly soluble in water, and 
insoluble in pure alcohol. They have no water of crystal- 



POTASSIUM NITKATE. 233 

lization, but frequently have a portion of the mother liquid 
mechanically lodged in the spaces of the crystals, which may 
be driven off by heat, and the salt fused and cast into moulds, 
when it is termed sal prunelle. 

Physiological Effects of the Potassium Preparations. — As 
the effects of the potassium salts are largely due to their base, 
it will be more convenient to consider them together, pointing 
out any differences when the various preparations are consid- 
ered. Locally, some of this group, as potassa fusa, abstract 
water from the tissues, dissolve albumen and saponify fats, and 
hence are caustics. The nitrate is a violent irritant when 
applied to mucous membranes or raw surfaces. Nervous 
system : in large doses, they may produce coma. They act 
on the spinal centres, lowering reflex excitability and causing 
paralysis of the lower extremities when given in large amounts. 
Circulation : all the potassium salts are cardiac poisons, their 
activity being due to the potassium and varying with the 
amount of the base they contain. In moderate doses they 
slow the heart and increase the arterial pressure, while in large 
doses they both diminish the frequency of the cardiac pulsations 
and lower the blood pressure. Animals poisoned by them die 
from cardiac paralysis (the heart being arrested in diastole), 
caused by direct action on the cardiac muscle and also by 
paralysis of the cardiac ganglia. Blood : after large doses, or 
when taken for some time, the blood is found to be less coag- 
ulable (the fibrin being diminished), the white corpuscles rel- 
atively increased, and the venous blood lighter in colour (Phil- 
lips). After large doses of the nitrate or chlorate, the blood 
becomes dark and refuses to take up oxygen, and the haem- 
oglobin is decomposed (Bartholow). The compounds with the 
vegetable acids increase the alkalinity of the blood. Tem- 
perature is reduced by large doses, especially when the nitrate 
or chlorate has been given. Secretion : the alkaline potas- 
sium compounds, like alkalies in general, when applied to the 
orifices of glands with acid secretions, increase, but when ap- 
plied to glands with alkaline secretions, diminish, their secreting 
power (Ringer). This does not apply to the nitrate. They 



234 MATERIA MEDICA SEDATIVES. 

increase the water of the urine and the urea and lessen the 
amount of uric acid. If the bicarbonate is given during fast- 
ing, the acidity of the urine will be increased, but the urine 
will be alkaline if it is administered during digestion. The 
alkalinity of the urine is most marked after the ingestion of the 
salts with the vegetable acids (as the tartrate, citrate, etc.). 
The nitrate and chlorate do not aifect the reaction of the urine. 
Gastro-intestinal tract : when alkalies are given on an empty 
stomach, the secretion of the acid gastric juice is increased; if 
given when gastric digestion is in progress, they neutralize the 
acidity of the secretion. In large amounts, potassa or the 
chlorate, nitrate, carbonate or chloride excites violent inflam- 
mation, causing vomiting, purging, etc. Nutrition : alkalies 
in small doses improve digestion, aid in saponifying fats, and 
promote oxidation of tissue, but when administered for too long 
a time, especially if given in large doses, they cause emaciation 
and pervert nutrition. Elimination : the potassium salts are 
eliminated chiefly by the urine, but to some extent also by the 
other secretions. The salts with the vegetable acids, during 
their passage through the system, are converted into carbonates 
and are eliminated under this form. Potassium nitrate and 
chlorate are eliminated unchanged in the urine and as sulphates 
in the feces. In excessive doses, nitre may act as a fatal poison, 
producing irritation of the alimentary canal and derangement 
of the nervous system ; the symptoms are burning pain in the 
throat and stomach, bloody stools, a tendency to syncope, 
collapse, and death, sometimes preceded by dilated pupils, 
insensibility, and convulsions. There is no antidote for it, 
and cases of poisoning are to be treated by demulcents, 
opiates, stimulants, etc., after evacuation of the contents of 
the stomach. 

Medicinal Uses. — Nitre is not as much used as it was for- 
merly. It may be given as a refrigerant and sedative remedy 
in fevers, inflammations, hemorrhages, etc. In fevers it is 
sometimes prescribed with calomel and tartar emetic, under the 
name of nitrous powders (nitre gr. x, tartar emetic gr. J, cal- 
omel gr. J- to J). In large doses it was given formerly in 



POTASSIUM CITRATE. 235 

acute rheumatism, and this practice has been revived with 
success in France. Dose, gr. x to 5ss. From 5iv to 5vj are 
given in twenty-four hours, in acute rheumatism, and the quan- 
tity is increased to oviij, x, or xij. The fumes of paper impreg- 
nated with nitre are used with advantage in spasmodic asthma. 

Sodii Nitras (Sodium Nitrate). This salt, commonly 
called cubic nitre, is found in large deposits in South America, 
chiefly in Peru, but also in Bolivia and Chili. . The crude salt 
occurs in rather soft and pliable lumps, of white, yellow or 
gray colour ; it is often purified in Peru by solution, crystalliza- 
tion, and desiccation, but it is usually refined after importation. 
It occurs in colourless rhombohedral crystals, slightly deli- 
quescent, and wholly soluble in water (NaN0 3 ), without odour, 
and of a sharp, cooling and bitter taste. 

^Effects and Uses. — Sodium nitre has been little used in med- 
icine, its employment having been limited chiefly to dysentery, 
in which it is highly praised by German physicians, in amounts 
of from half a troyounce to a troyounce, in mucilaginous solu- 
tion, during the day. Its effects are analogous to those of 
potassium nitre. The sodium salts are not as powerful cardiac 
poisons, neither do they affect the temperature nor act on the 
nervous system to the same extent. They impede coagulation, 
but do not alter the blood corpuscles. 



refrigerants. 

POTASSTI CITRAS — POTASSIUM CITRATE. 

This salt (formerly known as Salt of Riverius) is made by 
saturating a solution of citric acid with potassium bicarbonate, 
and evaporating to dryness. It is white, granular, inodorous, 
of a saline, slightly bitterish but not unpleasant taste, del- 
iquescent, and wholly soluble in water (K 3 C 6 H 5 7 ). It is an 
excellent refrigerant diaphoretic, much employed in febrile 
affections. Dose, gr. xx-xxv ; 5vj are usually dissolved in 
water Oss, and f 5ss of the solution is administered every hour 



236 MATERIA MEDICA — SEDATIVES. 

or two. The salts of the alkalies with vegetable acids, as cit- 
rates, tartrates and acetates, during their passage through the 
body are converted into carbonates. 

Liquor Potassii Citratis [Solution of Potassium Citrate) may 
be made by dissolving citric acid t^ss and potassium bicarbon- 
ate grs. 330 in water Oss ; dose, f §ss. 

Mistura Potassii Citratis [Mixture of Potassium Citrate, or 
Neutral Mixture) is made by saturating fresh lemon-juice with 
potassium bicarbonate ; or, when the lemon-juice cannot be had, 
a solution of citric acid, flavoured with oil of lemon, may be 
used as a substitute. This preparation contains some free car- 
bonic acid, which renders it more grateful to an irritable stom- 
ach than the ordinary solution of the citrate. Under the name 
of effervescing draught the potassium citrate is often prepared 
extemporaneously (fresh lemon-juice foss with an equal meas- 
ure of water, added to a solution of potassium carbonate 5\j in 
water fojv), and is given in the state of effervescence; it is an 
excellent remedy for irritable stomach, with fever. 



LIQUOR AMMONII ACETATIS — SOLUTION OF AMMO- 
NIUM ACETATE. 

This solution, termed also Spiritus Minder eri, or Spirit of 
Mindererus, is made by saturating diluted acetic acid with 
ammonium carbonate, and is a solution of ammonium acetate 
(NH 4 C 2 H 3 2 ). When pure it is a colourless liquid, with a 
saline taste ; it should always be made freshly when dispensed. 
The physiological effects of the ammonium salts have already 
been considered (vide p. 199). In small doses it is refrigerant ; 
in larger doses, diaphoretic, diuretic, and perhaps resolvent. 
It is employed in febrile and inflammatory affections, some- 
times in conjunction with nitre or one of the sedatives, some- 
times with camphor and opium. Given in full doses, frequently 
repeated, it is one of the best means of removing the effects 
of drunkenness. Dose, f 5^s to foj, every two, three or four 
hours, in sweetened water. 



VEGETABLE ACIDS. 237 

SPIRITUS ^THERIS NITROSI — SPIRIT OF NITROUS 

ETHER. 

This preparation, commonly known as Sweet Spirit of Nitre, 
is a solution of nitrous ether (C 2 H 5 N0 2 ) in alcohol. Spirit of 
nitrous ether is a volatile, inflammable liquid, of a pale-yellow 
colour, inclining slightly to green, has a fragrant, ethereal 
odour, free from pungency, and a sharp, burning taste, and 
mixes with water and alcohol in all proportions ; sp. gr. 0*823 
to 0*825. It contains five per cent, of nitrous ether. It should 
not be long kept, as it becomes strongly acid by age. 

Effects and Uses. — Sweet spirit of nitre is antispasmodic, 
refrigerant, diaphoretic and diuretic. As a diaphoretic, small 
doses should be given, largely diluted and frequently repeated. 
It is much used in febrile affections, and, from its diuretic prop- 
erties, is often combined with other diuretics in the treatment 
of dropsies. From its pleasant taste and smell it is very ac- 
ceptable to children. Dose, foss to f5j, frequently repeated. 
The inhalation of sweet spirit of nitre has produced dangerous 
and even fatal effects : pallor of the face, livid discolouration of 
the lips and fingers, weakness of the pulse, muscular prostra- 
tion, prsecardial oppression, and headache, are the symptoms 
described. A case is recorded in which death was attributed to 
the inhalation of the ether from a broken bottle in a sleeping 
apartment. The same symptoms may be produced by excessive 
doses. 

A CI DA VEG ETA B ILIA — VEGETABLE ACID?. 

The vegetable acids are refrigerant, and, when properly 
diluted, form useful drinks in fevers, etc. Those chiefly em- 
ployed are aeidum aceticum (acetic acid), acidum citricum (cit- 
ric acid), and acidum tartaricum (tartaric acid). 

Effects and Uses. — Applied to a raw surface or (if sufficiently 
concentrated) to the mucous membranes, they act as irritants. 
Acetic acid is the most powerful, and will, when applied to the 
skin, cause blanching from contraction of the capillaries. Citric 



238 MATERIA MEDICA — SEDATI\ ES. 

acid is the least irritant. After large doses the cardiac beat 
is slowed and weakened, but this is possibly due to the result- 
ing gastro-enteritis (Bartholow). The alkalinity of the blood 
is diminished. The general law regarding the action of acids 
on secretion holds good in the case of the vegetable acids, viz., 
that when applied to the orifices of glands secreting an acid 
fluid they diminish, while when applied to glands secreting an 
alkaline fluid they increase, their secreting power. Thus they 
increase the saliva and the intestinal secretion. The ingestion 
of the vegetable acids increases the acidity of the urine. They 
also increase the excretion of both the water and the solids of 
the urine, particularly free uric acid (and may thus lead to cal- 
culus). Their continued use causes abdominal pain, flatulence 
and diarrhoea. In large doses they may produce gastro-enter- 
itis. They are mostly converted into carbonic acid in the sys- 
tem, and are eliminated by the kidneys and intestinal mucous 
membrane. 

Acetic Acid (HC 2 H 3 2 ) is employed internally only in the 
form of diluted acetic acid (strong acid 17 parts to distilled 
water 83 parts). Externally, strong acetic acid (sp. gr. 1*048, 
and containing 36 per cent, of monohydrated acid) or glacial 
acetic acid (nearly absolute acetic acid — sp. gr. 1-058) is em- 
ployed as an escharotic to remove warts, in the cure of lupus, 
etc. Acetic acid is less used internally as a refrigerant than 
citric acid, from its liability to produce colic and diarrhoea, 
except in typhus, scarlet, and other malignant fevers, owing to 
its supposed possession of antiseptic virtues. Vinegar and water 
is one of the best injections for the cure of gonorrhoea in the 
female. Spongings with vinegar and water are useful to relieve 
the heat of the skin in fevers, and the vapor is grateful to the 
sick. Concentrated acetic acid is a corrosive poison, for which 
the alkalies and their carbonates, soap, etc., are the antidotes. 
Citric Acid may be agreeably administered in the diluted 
juice of lemons, limes, sour oranges and tamarinds. When 
these cannot be obtained, a solution of citric acid (3j to water 
Oj) may be substituted. Citric acid is manufactured from 
lemon or lime juice, by saturating it with calcium carbonate 



VEGETABLE ACIDS. 239 

and afterwards decomposing the calcium citrate, which is 
formed, by the addition of sulphuric acid. It occurs in colour- 
less crystals (H 3 C 6 H 5 7 ,H 2 0), having the form of rhomboidal 
prisms with dihedral summits, freely soluble in water, and solu- 
ble in alcohol ; 5ixss, added to distilled water Oj, form a solu- 
tion of the average strength of lemon-juice. In the dose of 
f3j every hour or two, lemon-juice, limonis succus (the juice 
of the fruit of Citrus limonum), has been employed with suc- 
cess in acute rheumatism and gout, and, though an uncertain 
remedy, is occasionally of undoubted efficacy: Of late years, 
however, it has given place to more reliable modes of treatment. 
Properly- diluted and mixed with sugar, it forms the delightful 
refrigerant known as lemonade. Lemon-juice (or, still better, 
lime-juice) is the most efficient known remedy for scurvy. It 
has also proved of advantage in jaundice and torpor of the 
liver. Syrwp of citric acid consists of 3ij of powdered citric 
acid and oil of lemon XX\iv rubbed up with syrup Sj, and after- 
wards dissolved in syrup oxxxj, at a gentle heat. Lemon 
syrup, which is pleasanter, is made by dissolving sugar t548 
in strained lemon-juice Oj mixed w T ith water Oj, at a gentle 
heat. Spirit of lemon (sometimes called essence of lemon) is 
made by dissolving oil of lemon f§ij (obtained from the rind of 
the fruit) in alcohol Oij, and adding freshly-grated lemon-peel 
tSj ; dose, f5i-ij- Tartaric Acid is the acid of grapes, and 
is extracted from tartar or crude cream of tartar. It is a 
white crystallized solid, in the form of irregular six-sided 
prisms (H 2 C 4 H 4 6 ), and is found in the shops as a fine white 
powder. It is soluble in water and alcohol. Being cheaper 
than citric acid, it may be used as a substitute for that acid. 
It is employed in making Seidlitz powders. Tartaric acid 
yields a precipitate (cream of tartar) with a solution of car- 
bonate or other neutral salt of potassium, while citric acid 
yields none. 



240 MATERIA MEDICA — SPINANTS. 

ORDER VIII. — SPINANTS. 

Under the term Spinants, or Spastics, are comprised med- 
icines which are employed to excite muscular contraction, or 
whose ultimate effect is the production of motor paralysis, and 
may, accordingly, be divided into excito-motors and depresso- 
motors. Of the first class, the most important articles are 
vegetable substances containing the alkaloids strychnia and 
brucia, which are employed therapeutically in torpid or para- 
lytic conditions of the muscular system ; ergot, which is used 
to excite muscular contraction of the uterus ; and digitalis, 
which is given for its tonic effect on the heart. The latter 
class contains such remedies as conium, physostigma, cocculus 
indicus, woorara, etc. 

EXCITO-MOTORS. 
NUX VOMICA. 

Strychnos nux vomica, or Poison-Nut (Nat. Ord. Logan- 
iacese), is a middling-sized tree of the coast of Coromandel and 
other parts of India, which bears a round, smooth berry, the 
size of a pretty large apple, of a rich orange colour, and con- 
taining numerous seeds imbedded in a juicy pulp. The seeds 
are the officinal portion ; but the bark also is poisonous, and is 
known as false angustura bark, from its having been confounded 
with angustura bark. The seeds are round, peltate, less than 
an inch in diameter, nearly flat, or convex on one side and con- 
cave on the other, and surrounded by a narrow annular stria. 
They have two coats : a simple fibrous outer coat, covered with 
short, silky hairs, of a gray or yellowish colour, and a very thin 
inner coat, which envelopes the nucleus or kernel. This is 
hard, horny, of a whitish or yellowish colour, and of very dif- 
ficult pulverization. The seeds have no odour, but an intensely 
bitter taste, which is stronger in the kernel than in the invest- 
ing membrane. They impart their virtues to water, but more 
readily to diluted alcohol, and contain two active alkaloid prin- 



NUX VOMICA. 241 

ciples, strychnia (which is officinal) and brucia, both of which 
exist in combination with an acid called strychnic or igasuric ; 
another alkaloid, termed igasuria, much more soluble in water 
than the two first named, has been lately extracted from nux 
vomica. 

Strychnia (C 21 H 22 N 2 2 ) is obtained by the following pro- 
cess : Nux vomica is digested and boiled in water acidulated 
with muriatic acid, and the resulting strychnia and brucia 
muriate is decomposed by milk of lime. The strychnia is sep- 
arated from brucia and impurities by boiling alcohol, from 
which it is deposited when cool, the brucia being left in solu- 
tion. It is then converted into a sulphate by the addition of 
diluted sulphuric acid, next decolourized by purified animal 
charcoal, and again precipitated by solution of ammonia. 
Thus obtained, it occurs as a white or grayish white powder 
(but may be made to crystallize in the form of white, brilliant 
rhombic prisms), of an intensely bitter taste, almost insoluble 
in water, slightly soluble in cold alcohol, but readily soluble in 
boiling alcohol. The usual test for strychnia is the potassium 
bichromate, which, added to a solution of strychnia in concen- 
trated sulphuric acid, produces a violet colour, which after a 
time changes to wine-red, and then to reddish yellow. A still 
more delicate test is a solution of potassium permanganate 
(gr. 1) in sulphuric acid (grs. 200). In both these tests the 
reagent is nascent oxygen. Lead binoxide, manganese per- 
oxide, and potassium ferrocyanide, act in the same way. The 
presence of morphia in excess may disguise the colour test; 
here chloroform should be used to separate the strychnia from 
morphia. When gently heated with a saturated solution of 
iodic acid, strychnia gives a rose-pink tint. The physiological 
test should be always resorted to : if a small frog be placed in 
an ounce of water containing yj-g- of a grain of strychnia salt, 
in two or three hours it will undergo tetanic spasms, and soon 
die. . The effects of strychnia are similar to those of nux vom- 
ica, but more violent ; its local action is that of an irritant. 
It is employed for the same purposes as nux vomica, and should 
be given in very minute doses, as gr. ^ to T x g to begin with, to 
16 



242 MATERIA MED1CA SPINANTS. 

be gradually increased arid repeated. The salts of strychnia 
may be also employed in the same doses, but they are more 
soluble, and therefore more active. For endermic use, gr. -fa 
of strychnia may be applied ; it is best used in amaurosis hypo- 
dermically, fa of a grain to begin with. 

Strychnia Sulphas {Strychnia Sulphate) is made by dis- 
solving a mixture of strychnia in distilled water, with diluted 
sulphuric acid, and evaporating. It occurs as a white salt, in 
colourless, prismatic crystals, efflorescent, odourless, very bitter, 
readily soluble in water, sparingly soluble in alcohol, and in- 
soluble in ether. It responds to the tests for strychnia, and 
may be used for the same purposes and in the same doses. 

Brucia (C 23 H 26 N 2 4 ), which is not officinal, resembles strych- 
nia in its action, but is much weaker. It is convertible into 
strychnia by oxidizing agents, a point of importance in forensic 
analysis. 

Physiological Effects. — Strychnia increases the reflex excita- 
bility of the spinal cord, and thus produces convulsions. It 
probably stimulates the motor nerves, though this is not cer- 
tain. After death, galvanization of the motor trunks causes 
little or no contraction in response, due to direct action on and 
exhaustion of the motor trunks (Wood, H. C). It stimulates 
the vaso-motor centres of the brain and spinal cord (Ott). 
Death is due to asphyxia. In very small and repeated doses, 
nux vomica has a tonic and diuretic effect, and sometimes op- 
erates slightly on the bowels and skin. In somewhat larger 
doses, the stomach is often disturbed ; and in still larger doses, 
the muscular system becomes disordered. A sense of weight 
and weakness in the limbs, and increased sensibility to external 
impressions of all kinds, manifest themselves, with depression 
of spirits and anxiety ; the limbs tremble, and slight convulsive 
movements of the muscles appear. If the medicine be con- 
tinued, convulsive paroxysms of the whole muscular system 
ensue, with erotic desires, painful sensations in the skin, and 
occasionally eruptions ; the heart is slowed and the blood 
pressure increased, probably through vaso-motor spasm. In 
paralytic patients the effects of the medicine are principally 



KUX VOMICA. 243 

observed in the paralyzed parts. When taken in excessive 
doses it produces tetanus, asphyxia, and death, the intellect 
being usually unaffected up to the fatal termination. There 
is no chemical antidote, unless, perhaps, tannic acid and the 
ioduretted potassium iodide. The stomach should be emptied 
and the physiological antidote given. Chloral is the best 
physiological antidote. It acts chiefly by lowering the activity 
of the parts which conduct the excitation to the spinal cord, 
preventing the too frequent repetition of the tetanic spasms 
and lessening their intensity (Schmidt's Jahrb., June, 1881, 
quoted in Am. J. Med. Sc, April, 1882). In grave cases 
artificial respiration should also be resorted to. The anti- 
dotism between strychnia and chloral is not reciprocal. Opium, 
conium, ether, chloroform, extract of Indian hemp, camphor, 
calabar bean, bromide of potassium, or atropia, may also be 
exhibited as physiological antidotes. Dr. Kratter announces 
that strychnia is excreted entirely unaltered by the urine, the 
excretion beginning within one hour and ending within forty- 
eight hours after administration. The entire amount taken 
can be demonstrated in the urine (Sep. Abd. "Wien. Med. 
Wchft. 8, 9, 10, 82, quoted in Med. and Surg. Report. Phila., 
Nov. 18, 18h2). 

Medicinal Uses. — This medicine is our chief resource in 
torpid or paralytic conditions of the motor or sensitive nerves 
or of the muscular fibre. When, however, paralysis is the 
result of inflammation of the nervous centres, it is injurious, 
and accelerates organic changes. It is most beneficial in those 
forms of paralysis which are independent of structural lesion, 
as lead palsy or paralysis from drunkenness. In paralysis 
arising from cerebral hemorrhage — after the absorption of the 
effused blood and the paralysis remains, as it were, from habit — 
the cautious employment of nux vomica is often attended with 
advantage. In amaurosis, free from cerebral complication, it 
is very useful ; and it is occasionally serviceable in other ner- 
vous affections. It has also been found beneficial in chorea, 
constipation, dysentery, cholera, diarrhoea, impotence, inconti- 
nence of urine, eczema, and spermatorrhoea; in combination 



244 MATERIA MEDICA — SPINANTS. 

with other remedies, in ansemia, chlorosis, etc. ; and in small 
doses it has been used with excellent effect as a general tonic, 
where there is loss of nerve-power, and as a stomachic in dys- 
pepsia, and to relieve the vomiting of pregnancy. 

Administration. — Dose, of the powder, gr. ij or iij, in pill, 
several times a day, and increased till an effect is produced ; 
of the abstract, gr. j equals gr. ij of the powder ; of the extract 
(alcoholic), gr. J to gr. j, to be repeated and increased ; of the 
fluid extract, TT^ j equals (nearly) gr. j of the powder ; of the 
tincture, gtt. v to xx, and this is sometimes used as an embro- 
cation to paralyzed parts. A tolerance of nux vomica and 
strychnia is rapidly established in the system. 



IGNATIA. 

The seed of Strychnos Ignatii, or St. Ignatius' Bean, a tree 
of the Philippine Islands, contains a large proportion of strych- 
nia, some brucia, etc., and possesses medicinal properties anal- 
ogous to those of nux vomica. It may be given to fulfill the 
same remedial indications as nux vomica. An abstract and a 
tincture are officinal. 

Rhus Toxicodendron (Poison- Oak). The fresh leaves of 
Rhus toxicodendron, or Poison-Oak (Nat. Ord. Terebinthacese), 
an indigenous shrub from one to three feet high, and other spe- 
cies of Rhus, possess properties somewhat analogous to those of 
nux vomica, and have been employed with success in paralysis. 
They contain toxicodendric acid, to which their poisonous and 
medicinal activity is due. Dose, gr. j to gr. iij, or more, to be 
repeated and increased. In cases of poisoning, the irritation 
of the skin is relieved by glycerite of carbolic acid or alkaline 
solutions. 

ERGOTA-— ERGOT. 



Ergot is a fungus growing from the diseased ovary of Secale 
cereale, or Rye (Nat, Ord. Graminacese). The U. S. Phar- 



ERGOT. 



245 



macopceia styles it the Sclerotium of Claviceps purpurea 
(Nat. Ord. Fungi), replacing the grain of Secale cereale. Its 
predisposing cause is unknown, and it is not peculiar to rye. 
many other grasses being subject to it, as abortion in grazing 



Fig. 19. 




animals has been frequently produced by their eating grasses 
affected with ergot. The ergot usually projects out of the glum 
or husk of the plant, beyond the ordinary outline of the spike 
or ear. It should not be collected until some days after it has 



246 MATERIA MEDICA — SPINANTS, 

begun to form, as it is thought not to possess full activity until 
about the sixth day of its formation. As found in the shops 
it consists of cylindrical or somewhat prismatical tapering 
grains, curved like the spur of a cock, of a purplish colour 
externally, and of a yellowish or grayish-white colour within. 
Its smell is peculiar and nauseous ; its taste is at first faint, 
but becomes bitterish, acrid and disagreeable. It yields its 
virtues to water and alcohol, and does not keep well, being 
liable to the attacks of a minute worm. It deteriorates much 
more rapidly in powder than when in grain, in the former con- 
dition soon becoming inert. 

Numerous analyses have been made of ergot, but there is 
still uncertainty as regards its active principles. The recent 
investigations of Dragendorff seem to show that the specific 
effects of the drug depend in a high degree upon a proximate 
principle of an acid character, to which the name of sclerotic 
acid is given. It is odourless and tasteless, soluble in water 
and boiling alcohol, but not at all in cold alcohol. Good ergot 
contains about 4 to 4*5 per cent, of the acid. Ergot also con- 
tains scleromucin (2 to 3 per cent.), sclererythoin, scleroiodin, 
picrosclerotin (poisonous), sclerocrystallin, and scleroxarithin 
(inert), and an alkaloid, ergotinine (Maisch). 

Physiological Effects. — The effects of ergot are not well 
understood, especially as regards its action on the nervous sys- 
tem. In medicinal doses it acts most conspicuously on the cir- 
culation and on the female system, in which it excites powerful 
contractions of the uterus. After labour has commenced, in 
ten or twenty minutes from its administration, it increases the 
violence, frequency and continuance of labour pains, which 
usually never cease until the child is born. Administered be- 
fore labour, it frequently originates the process, though its 
effects in this respect are less constant. And even on the 
unimpregnated uterus it produces painful contractions, and 
evinces an influence over morbid conditions of the organ by 
checking uterine hemorrhage and expelling polypi. Ergot in- 
duces contraction of the unstriped or involuntary muscular 
fibre wherever found, causing contraction of the blood-vessels 



ERGOT. 247 

everywhere, and it is thus available generally as a remedy 
in cerebral and spinal congestions, hemorrhages, tumours, mor- 
bid growths and enlargements. In large doses it produces 
vomiting, purging, increased peristalsis, and a marked sedative 
effect on the circulation, slowing the heart, probably by direct 
action on the cardiac muscle, and causing an enormous rise in 
the blood pressure, through the contraction of the arterioles 
and stimulation of the vaso-motor centres of the cord and 
medulla; decided toxic doses lower the blood pressure, by 
depressing the heart and vaso-motor centres (Wood, H. C). 
In excessive quantities it acts as an acro-narcotic poison on 
both sexes. When it is used for a length of time as an article 
of food it produces a peculiar morbid condition, termed ergot- 
ism, which assumes two forms, one attended with convulsions, 
the other with dry gangrene of the limbs. 

Medicinal Uses. — The chief employment of ergot is to pro- 
mote the action of the uterus in parturition when its expulsa- 
tory efforts are feeble and inefficient. It is, however, admissible 
only when there is a proper conformation of the pelvis and soft 
parts, when the os uteri, vagina, and os externum are dilated 
or readily dilatable, and when the presentation of the child is 
such as to offer no great mechanical impediment to delivery. 
It is also useful when from any cause it is important to accel- 
erate delivery; in women subject to flooding, given just before 
delivery; to promote the expulsion of the placenta, when it 
is retained from a want of contraction of the uterus ; to expel 
clots, hydatids, polypi, etc. ; to restrain uterine hemorrhage, 
whether puerperal or non-puerperal ; to excite and promote 
abortion, etc. ; and locally as a styptic. It is now much em- 
ployed, also, in hemorrhages generally, in gonorrhoea, dysmen- 
orrhea, paralysis of the bladder, purpura, diabetes insipidus, 
and several other diseases ; lately, with marked success, in 
hypertrophy of the prostate ; by hypodermic injection, in the 
cure of aneurism and varix, and of fibroid tumours of the 
uterus ; and also in paralysis dependent upon congestion of 
the spinal cord. By many, ergot is believed to exercise a 
dangerous sedative influence on the child during labour (owing 



248 MATERIA MEDICA — SPINANTS. 

to the interference of the passage of blood from the placenta 
during violent uterine contraction), and its use may occasionally 
produce foetal death, which a timely resort to the forceps would 
have prevented. 

Administration. — Ergot may be given in labour, in the dose 
of 3i, in poivder, every twenty minutes, till its effects are pro- 
duced, or three doses are taken ; in other diseases the dose is 
from three to five grains. It may be safely given, in chronic 
diseases, for a long period, without danger of ergotism ; the 
indication of the maximum dose having been reached is the 
production of uterine colic, w T hen the dose should be dimin- 
ished. The fluid extract is the best preparation (f§i repre- 
senting ergot t§i) ; dose, 20 to 30 drops.* The wine (vinum 
ergotae) contains powdered ergot, 15 parts, in 100 by weight 
of the preparation. Dose, f5j to f5ij. The preparations used 
under the name of ergotin are of uncertain strength. 

USTIL AGO. 

Ustilago maydis {Nat. Ord. Fungi), Corn Smut or Corn 
Ergot, is a fungoid growth upon the Zea mays or Indian Corn 
(Nat. Ord. Graminaceae). It is found in irregular masses, 
growing upon all parts of the plant, but most frequently upon 
the fruit, and consisting of a blackish gelatinous membrane, 
inclosing numerous dark globular and nodular spores. It has 
a disagreeable odour and taste, and contains a fixed oil, a crys- 
talline principle, etc. (Maisch). 

Its effects are supposed to resemble those of ergot, and it 
has been successfully used in the same class of cases. 

GOSSYPII RADICIS CORTEX — BARK OP COTTON ROOT. 

Gossypium herbaceum (Nat. Ord. Malvaceae) is a native of 
Asia, cultivated extensively in tropical and semi-tropical coun- 

* For hypodermic use, the fluid extract should be reduced by evaporation 
to one-sixth of its weight, and sixty grains of this extract should be dis- 
solved in four fluidrachms of water ; four minims of this aqueous solution 
represent one grain of extract and six grains of ergot. 



DIGITALIS. 249 

tries, and with great success in the South Atlantic and Gulf 
districts of the United States. By cultivation, different varie- 
ties of this plant have been produced. The root should be 
collected immediately after the cotton is harvested, and the 
root-bark should be of a yellowish-brown colour externally, 
internally much lighter ; w r hen chewed, it has a slightly sweet- 
ish, astringent taste. It contains chromogene (when fresh), 
becoming a red resin, a yellow resinous colouring matter, fixed 
oil, gum, sugar, tannic acid, etc. It has long been recognized 
by southern physicians as possessing decided influence in ex- 
citing uterine contractions. Dr. J. C. Martin, however, from 
experiments on frogs, rabbits, and guinea-pigs, concludes that 
it has no action on the motor or sensory nerves, nor on the 
reflex functions; that the circulation and muscles are unin- 
fluenced by it, and that it possesses no oxytocic properties 
(Am. J. Med. Sc, Jan. 1882). A decoction (made by boiling 
5iv of the inner bark of the root in* a quart of water to a pint) 
has been used in doses of a wineglassful, repeated. The only 
officinal preparation is the fluid extract (which, when first pre- 
pared, is of a brownish-yellow colour, changing, however, to a 
bright red) ; dose, f 5>j. Cotton, the well-known filamentous 
substance separated from the seed of the varieties of gossypium, 
is a useful application to burns and parts affected with erysip- 
elas and rheumatism. 



DIGITALIS. 

Digitalis purpurea, or Purple Foxglove (Nat. Ord. Scroph- 
ulariacese), is a biennial European plant, cultivated in our 
gardens, with an erect stem three or four feet high, large 
ovate-lanceolate, crenate, downy and veiny leaves, of a dull 
green colour, and handsome bell-shaped crimson or purple 
flowers, arranged in a long terminal spike. The seeds and 
leaves are both active, but the latter only are employed, 
from plants of the second years groivth ; and those from the 
European wild plants are preferred, as the cultivated variety 
is thought to be inferior in virtue. The petioles are removed, 



i50 MATERIA MEDICA SPINANTS. 

and the leaves are then dried in baskets, in a dark place, in a 
drying-stove. When dried, they have a dull-green colour, 
with a faint odour and a bitter, nauseous taste, and afford a 
fine deep-green powder. Both leaves and powder should be 
preserved in well-stoppered bottles, covered externally with 
dark-coloured paper, and kept in a dark cupboard. And, as 
their medicinal activity is impaired by keeping, they should be 
renewed annually. They contain a neutral principle termed 
digitalin, which possesses properties similar to those of the 
leaves ; also some inosit, pectin, resin, etc. 

Digitalin is a white or yellowish-white powder, odourless, 
but of a very bitter taste ; readily soluble in alcohol, chloro- 
form and acids, but nearly insoluble in water and ether ; dose, 
from q\ to g 1 ^- of a grain. Commercial digitalin, however, 
usually contains other principles mixed with pure digitalin, 
and it is best to prescribe digitalis. 

Physiological Effects. — Nervous system : in toxic doses, 
digitalis lowers reflex activity by exciting Setschenow's in- 
hibitory reflex centre, and, after a time, paralyzing the spinal 
cord (Dr. A. Weil quoted by H. C. Wood), causes prostration, 
muscular tremors, and sometimes convulsions. Circulation : 
it lessens the number of cardiac pulsations, prolonging the 
diastole, energizing the systole, and finally paralyzing the heart 
in systole ; this is produced by direct stimulation of the cardiac 
muscle, and possibly of the contained motor ganglia, as well 
as of the peripheral inhibitory fibres of the pneumogastric. 
Moderate doses cause a rise in the arterial pressure, probably 
by contracting the arterioles, through stimulation of the vaso- 
motor centres of the cord ; after large doses the pulse becomes 
dicrotic from irregular ventricular contraction ; toxic doses, or, 
when the heart is much depressed, a sudden change from the 
recumbent to the erect position, may cause a frequent, weak 
and small pulse, with lowered blood pressure. The influence 
of digitalis over the pulse is more marked in weak and debili- 
tated persons than in those who are robust and plethoric. Its 
effects, too, in this particular are more easily obtained in the 
recumbent than in the erect posture, owing to the less force 



DIGITALIS. 251 

required in the former position to carry on the circulation. 
In the repeated use of small doses of this medicine, a cumula- 
tive effect is sometimes observed : its powers are not manifested 
for a certain time, and effects are suddenly produced, which 
are attributable to the whole amount administered, giving rise 
to dangerous and even fatal syncope. In morbid conditions 
of the circulation, where it is irritable, abnormally quick, or 
irregular, digitalis is considered to exercise a primary medicinal 
effect in steadying the pulse and restoring its force and regu- 
larity, while it diminishes morbid frequency. Where the tem- 
perature of the body is abnormally increased, digitalis, in large 
doses, will diminish it. As regards its diuretic action, it is 
probably rather indirect than direct, and is most conspicuous 
where dropsical effusions are removed under its influence. 
Brunton has, however, recently shown that in dropsies it acts 
directly on the Malpighian tufts, independent of the blood 
pressure. It increases the amount of solids eliminated in the 
urine, except that of urea and uric acid, which are diminished 
under its use. "When too long continued, or taken in excessive 
doses, digitalis acts as an acro-narcotic poison, producing 
vomiting, purging, severe abdominal pains, vertigo, disordered 
vision, dilated pupils, syncope, and finally delirium and stupor, 
death being usually preceded by convulsions. In such cases, 
after evacuating the stomach, the diffusible stimuli, as brandy 
and carbonate of ammonium, should be administered. Opium, 
aconite, etc., antagonize to some extent the action of digitalis ; 
the most complete antagonism exists between digitalis and sapo- 
nine, the active principle of Saponaria officinalis (Kohler, quoted 
by Bartholow). The quantity of digitalis, however, that may be 
given, especially in disease, without destroying life, is consid- 
erable. Chemical analysis affords no certain tests of the pres- 
ence of digitalis or its active principle, and in cases of sus- 
pected poisoning the physiological test is to be resorted to. In 
the celebrated Pommerais case, the criminal was condemned 
from the evidence derived from the administration of an extract 
obtained from the stomach and bowels of the deceased party, 
to small animals, in whom were produced vomiting and marked 



252 MATERIA MEDICA — SPINANTS. 

diminution of the number of heart-beats, with intermittent and 
irregular action. 

Medicinal Uses. — From its action on the circulation, digi- 
talis has been used in fevers, inflammations, and hemorrhages, 
where bloodletting is inadmissible, as in hectic fever, tubercular 
hemoptysis, etc. In fevers accompanied by a high temperature, 
as scarlatina and typhoid fever, it is specially useful. In the 
treatment of diseases of the heart and great vessels it is a 
remedy of the greatest value, but is to be prescribed with dis- 
crimination. In dilatation of the heart, in fatty degeneration, 
and in failure or irritability of heart-action generally, digitalis, 
by increasing the force of the cardiac contractions and by 
abating irregular movement, is always useful ; in uncomplicated 
hypertrophy it is objectionable. In valvular, especially mitral, 
disease, as well as aortic constriction, if the heart's action be 
feeble, it is indicated. It is greatly esteemed in the treatment 
of dropsy ; and in the varieties of this disorder resulting from 
heart disease it is more employed than any other remedy, 
from its combined cardiac and diuretic influence. It is a val- 
uable remedy in acute desquammative nephritis, especially 
when dropsy is present, and also in granular degeneration of 
the kidney under like circumstances. In delirium tremens, 
digitalis has lately been given in large doses, with excellent 
effect. It is thought that a physiological antagonism exists 
between digitalin and the alkaloids aconitia and delphinia. 

Administration. — Digitalis may be given in powder, of which 
the dose is gr. j two or three times a day, to be gradually in- 
creased. The officinal preparations are the abstract, gr. i of 
which equals gr. ij of the powder ; the infusion, dose f 3ij-jv ; 
the tincture, dose ttly-f 5j > ^ e ex ^ rae ^ (alcoholic), dose gr. \, 
gradually increased ; the fluid extract, dose TT|J to begin with. 
If digitalis produce wakefulness, a little opium may be com- 
bined with it. 

CIMICIFUGA. 

Cimicifuga racemosa, Black Snakeroot, or Cohosh (Nat. Ord. 
Ranunculacese), is a very common indigenous perennial plant, 



CIMICIFUGA. 



263 



growing to the height of from four to eight feet, with ternate 
leaves, oblong-ovate, incised and toothed leaflets, and small 
white flowers disposed in a long raceme. The rhizome and 
rootlets are the parts employed. The rhizome is a rugged, 
blackish-brown caudex, from a third of an inch to an inch in 




thickness, often several inches in length, furnished with numer- 
ous slender rootlets. Internally its colour is whitish ; it has 
a peculiar faint, disagreeable odour and a bitter, somewhat 
astringent, taste. It imparts its virtues to boiling water, and 
contains a neutral crystalline principle, gum, starch, two resins, 



251 MATERIA MEDICA SPINANTS. 

tannic and gallic acids, and a volatile oil. The active principle 
has not yet been isolated. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of cimicifuga are not very 
accurately known. After large doses, vertigo, dilated pupil, 
and often hypnotic and anodyne effects are seen. On the cir- 
culation its effects are similar to, but less powerful than, those 
of digitalis (Bartholow), as it slows the cardiac beat, while in- 
creasing the strength of its contraction, and raises the arterial 
tension. It is undoubtedly an active stimulant of the secre- 
tions, particularly those of the skin, mucous membranes and 
kidneys. It acts also on the uterus and unstriped muscles like 
ergot, but less powerfully. It increases the sexual appetite of 
the male and promotes the menstrual flow of the female (Bar- 
tholow). It has been employed with advantage as an expec- 
torant in chronic bronchial affections, and even in caseous 
pneumonia and phthisis. In fatty heart it is safer than dig- 
italis, and may be used in dilated heart, languid circulation, 
and oppressed breathing (Bartholow). It has also been used 
as a diaphoretic in rheumatism and as a diuretic in dropsies. 
" Puerperal mania, hypochondriasis and convulsions, due to 
menstrual irregularities, have been cured by cimicifuga" (Bar- 
tholow). As an antispasmodic in chorea it enjoys a high rep- 
utation. It often gives relief in the congestive forms of dys- 
menorrhea, and is employed too, occasionally, to promote the 
expulsion of the placenta after delivery, in the relief of after 
pains, and in menorrhagia. It is a good remedy in subnivolu- 
tion of the uterus. A saturated alcoholic solution has been used, 
with good effect, as an application to the eye in ophthalmia. 

Administration. — Dose, in powder, 3j-5j (not officinal). Of 
the fluid extract or tincture the dose is f5^s-j or ij. 



DEPRESSO-MOTORS. 
CONIUM. 

Conium maculatum, or Hemlock (Nat. Ord. Umbelliferse), is 
a biennial European plant, naturalized in many parts of the 



CONIUM. 



2oo 



United States. Its stem is erect, from three to five feet high. 
The leaves are large and bright green; the flowers are small, 
white, and arranged in umbels. The whole plant is narcotic 
and virulent, and has a fetid, heavy odour. The full-grown 
fruit (gathered while yet green, and carefully dried) is the 
only portion used. It has a yellowish-gray colour, a feeble 
odour, and a bitterish taste ; it is roundish-ovate, a line and a 
half in length by a line in breadth, and striated. 

The active principle of hemlock is an alkaloid termed 
conia (C 8 H 15 N), which exists in larger proportion in the seeds 

Fig. 21. 




than in the leaves. It is a colourless, transparent, volatile, oily 
fluid, of a peculiar repulsive, suffocating, mouse-like odour 
and a bitterish taste, sparingly soluble in water, and freely so 
in alcohol,* ether, and chloroform, and undergoes decomposition 
upon exposure to the air. It is a highly energetic poison, even 
in very small doses ; the dose of it is gr. ^ E . Another alkaloid, 
eonhydrina, has been isolated ; both probably exist as malates. 
Conia combines with acids to form salts and with water a hy- 
drate. A new 7 principle, methylconia, has been obtained. 



'2.56 MATERIA MEDICA — SPINANTS. 

Physiological Effects. — Local action : conia applied to a 
part may produce paralysis. Nervous system: hemlock has 
but little influence upon the cerebral hemispheres, for in cases 
of poisoning from it consciousness has been preserved to the 
last. A medicinal dose induces the following effects : a sense 
of muscular fatigue and feebleness of the legs is felt, the eye- 
lids droop, and vision becomes impaired, accompanied by dila- 
tation of the pupil. In lethal doses conium causes paralysis, 
which is due to a paralyzing influence on the terminal extrem- 
ities of the motor nerves. On the sensory nerves it has no in- 
fluence, while its action on the cord is doubtful. The circula- 
tion is not influenced by hemlock ; the respiratory movements 
are not altered unless a poisonous dose has been taken, when 
the respiratory centre is paralyzed and death ensues from as- 
phyxia. Temperature : some lowering of the animal heat has 
been noted, but this, lately, has been denied by Lautenbach. 
Secretions : conium has no action on the glandular organs.' 
Elimination : hemlock is eliminated in part* by the urine, 
as it has been found there. In large doses it causes nausea, 
vertigo, dimness of vision, relaxation of the muscles ; and in 
poisonous quantities, dilatation of the pupils, difficulty of 
speech, delirium or coma, paralysis, and finally convulsions and 
death. It has no direct hypnotic effect. Like woorara, its 
characteristic physiological effect is the production of pure 
motor paralysis, beginning in the extremities and extending to 
the trunk, involving chiefly the terminal nerve-endings. In 
cases of poisoning, alcoholic stimuli are to be given, and as 
physiological antidotes, the tetanizing agents, as strychnia. 

Medicinal Uses. — It is employed as a general and topical 
anodyne, to relieve the pain of malignant tumours; and, 
even if destitute of the deobstruent powers which have been 
ascribed to it, it certainly exerts a remarkably palliative influ- 
ence upon painful chronic indurations. It has also been recom- 
mended as an antispasmodic in whooping-cough, asthma, paral- 
ysis agitans, and as an anodyne in neuralgia; as an adjuvant 
to other remedies in mania, especially melancholia; to moderate 
irritability of the sexual organs; in diabetes; to relieve the 



CALABAR BEAN. 257 

blepharospasm of many acute inflammations of the eye ; and it 
is used externally as a cataplasm to cancers and other irritable 
ulcers. Conium is quickly absorbed, and is eliminated with 
equal rapidity ; hence its effects are speedily induced, and are 
of brief duration. It is the cicuta of Hippocrates, Galen and 
Pliny, and is supposed to have been the poison administered to 
Socrates and Phocion. 

Administration. — The dose of the powder, gr. ss-j. The ex- 
tract (alcoholic) may be given in the same doses. An abstract 
is also officinal. A tincture (dose, f5ss, f5j) and a fluid ex- 
tract are also used ; of the fluid extract, a fluidounce of which 
contains a troyounce of the seeds, and in preparing which 
muriatic acid is employed to fix the alkaloid conia, the dose is 
four or five minims. 

The preparations of conium are uncertain, from the fact that 
the active principle is very volatile and easily escapes ; the leaves 
contain but a small amount of it, wmich is easily driven off, even 
in the act of desiccation. Probably the best preparation is the 
fluid extract ; this is now given in larger doses than those for- 
merly laid down. 

PHYSOSTIGMA — CALABAR BEAN. 

This is the seed of a perennial climbing plant of the western 
coast of Africa, which has received the name of Physostigma 
venenosum (Nat. Ord. Leguminos?e). The seed is about the 
size of a large horse-bean, irregularly kidney-form in shape, 
with a hard, brittle integument, and of a dark chocolate-brown 
colour. The inner kernel is by far the more active portion. 
Alcohol, but not water, extracts its medicinal virtues. It yields 
an active alkaloid, termed eserina or physostigmina, sparingly 
soluble in water, but more soluble in alcohol, ether and chlor- 
oform ; and recently another alkaloid, termed calaharia, which 
is believed to be a tetanizing agent, has been found in it in 
variable amount. The dose of eserina is gr. y 1 ^ to g 1 ^. 

The Calabar bean has long been used among the negroes of 
western Africa as an ordeal to determine tbe guilt or inno- 
17 



258 MATERIA MEDICA — SPINANTS. 

cence of accused individuals, whence its name, the ordeal bean 
of Calabar. 

Physiological Effects. — It has been found, in full medicinal 
doses, to produce giddiness, torpor, paleness and coolness of the 
surface, weak and irregular pulse, relaxation of the muscular 
system, and drowsiness, but not stupor. An interesting effect of 
its action is a remarkable power of contracting the pupil, whether 
taken internally or applied externally ; it seems probable that 
this is accomplished by a local peripheral action — i. e., paraly- 
sis of the sympathetic terminals and stimulation of the oculo- 
motor fibres in the iris ; and it also contracts the ciliary mus- 
cle, which regulates the accommodating power of the eye. 
Nervous system : the brain is not direetly affected by Calabar 
bean, the paralysis induced by it being clue to a depressant 
action upon the spinal cord. In proof of this statement can 
be offered the fact that the muscular contractility and irrita- 
bility of the motor and sensibility of the sensory nerves re- 
mains unimpaired in cases of poisoning by physostigma. The 
local application of a strong solution abolishes the functions of 
both kinds of nerves (Fraser). Lethal doses of physostigma 
cause total loss of reflex activity in the. cord. Circulation : 
small doses of physostigma retard the heart's action by length- 
ening the diastolic pause, while toxic doses arrest it in dia- 
stole, but before the movements are extinguished there is a 
marked fall in blood pressure. The stoppage is probably due 
to paralysis of the cardiac ganglia. Respiration : toxic doses 
of physostigma cause slowing of these movements, and eventually 
they are abolished, death ensuing from asphyxia. Intestines : 
Calabar bean increases decidedly intestinal peristalsis. Increase 
of the salivary secretion has been observed. A poisonous dose 
of physostigma in man causes nausea, giddiness, muscular 
weakness and tremors, diminished heart action, abolition of 
reflex action, slow respiration, myosis and paralysis. It is 
allied in its effects to woorara and conium, but differs from 
them in its tendency to produce muscular twitchings, and con- 
traction of the pupil. In cases of poisoning, after emptying 
the stomach, the hypodermic administration of a solution of 



COCCULUS INDICUS. 259 

atropia is. the best physiological antidote. Chloral mitigates 
the symptoms. 

Medicinal Uses. — Calabar bean has been found highly effi- 
cacious in traumatic tetanus, but it must be given in doses 
large enough to attain decided effects. Dr. Fraser advises the 
exhibition of the drug, hypodermically, in severe cases. It 
has been used also with success in chorea, and in poisoning 
from strychnia, and spasmodic cholera. In ophthalmic sur- 
gery its employment is obvious, either to produce contraction 
of the pupil or to increase the power of accommodating the 
eye to distances. 

The dose of the kernel is laid down as two or three grains, to 
begin with, gradually increased. By exhausting the kernel 
with alcohol, an extract (alcoholic) is obtained, of which the 
dose is gr. J. A good form of administration is the tincture 
(100 parts contain 10 parts of the powder) ; dose, 1 to 10 
drops ; or a solution in glycerin may be used. Userina itself, 
or as a salt, one part to a thousand in solution, may be applied 
to the eye. Physostigmina? salicylas is now officinal. Gel- 
atine disks are now much used. 



COCCULUS — COCCULUS INDICUS. 

This is the dried seed of Anamirta cocculus (Nat, Ord. 
Menispermacese), a climbing shrub of India. The fruit is a 
one-celled berry, of a dark purplish colour, with a soft pulp, 
and a single seed the size of a pea, containing a bitter kernel. 
The active properties reside in a peculiar white, crystallizable 
bitter principle termed picrotoxin, which is partially soluble in 
water, and very soluble in alcohol, chloroform and ether. Pic- 
rotoxin is not precipitated by the reagents for the alkaloids, and 
does not neutralize acids. In the shell, an alkaloid termed men- 
ispermia has been found, and a neutral principle of the same 
composition as the alkaloid, termed paramenispermia. 

Effects and Uses. — Cocculus Indicus is an acrid cerebro- 
spinal narcotic, capable, in large doses, of producing death 
by tetanic fixation of the respiratory muscles. Its cerebral 



260 MATERIA MEDICA — SPINAKTS. 

effects are variously described, such as stupor, giddiness and 
vertigo. In doses sufficient to produce cerebral effects it is apt 
to nauseate. Cocculus Indicus is a tetanizing agent, this con- 
dition being followed bj convulsions, paralysis and coma. The 
chief action of the drug appears to be that of an excitant of 
the centres located in the medulla oblongata. The convulsions 
can be brought on in an animal from which the brain has been 
removed, and the reflex functions are suspended by it. During 
the convulsive stage the heart's action increases, while in the 
stage of coma it becomes slow, and after death it is found to 
be in diastole. Picrotoxin induces decided diaphoresis. It has 
not been much used internally, except in the night sweats of 
phthisis (Murrell) in doses of gr. T J-g- to g 1 ^ of picrotoxin, with 
good results; but in the form of decoction or ointment it is 
employed to destroy lice and other parasites, and for the cure 
of tinea and porrigo of the scalp. It is said to prevent the 
secondary fermentation of malt liquors, into which it is some- 
times introduced as an adulteration. Cocculus Indicus is not 
officinal, but the alkaloid picrotoxin (picrotoxinum) is among 
the articles added to the Pharmacopoeia of 1880. 

wo OR A R A. 

This substance, termed also ivoorari, woorali, and curare, has 
long been known as a powerful poison prepared by the Indians 
in South America, and of late years has been employed as a 
medicine. Its source is unsettled, but it is generally consid- 
ered to be an extract from the bark of Strychnos toxifera and 
S. cogens. It is brought from the banks of the Orinoco, and 
occurs in the form of dark-brown or grayish lumps or powder, 
of an intensely bitter taste, and, when triturated, of a powerful 
odour. An alkaloid termed cur aria has been extracted from 
woorara. It is said to exist as a sulphate (Sachs). 

Effects and Uses. — Woorara, topically, is an irritant. Woo- 
rara is ranked with the motor depressants, and is considered to 
destroy life by more or less rapid paralysis of the respiratory 
muscles. A peculiarity of its action is that it is comparatively 



VIBURNUM. 261 

innoxious when taken by the stomach, being either not absorbed 
at all in this viscus, or so slowly as to allow of its elimination 
by the kidneys before dangerous accumulation in the blood. 
Hence, for therapeutic purposes, it must be employed either 
endermically to a blistered surface or by hypodermic injection. 
Woorara kills the intra-muscular motor nerve-endings without 
affecting the muscular irritability, and destroys the reflex func- 
tion of the spinal cord : in other words, the paralysis induced 
by it is peripheral and not centric ; eventually, however, the 
paralyzing action of woorara extends to the nerve-trunks and 
centres. The cerebrum is only secondarily involved. Arti- 
ficial respiration retards the poisonous effects of the dru£, 
Woorara stimulates and then paralyzes the accelerator cardiac 
nerves. Other effects of woorara are elevation of temperature, 
increased nasal, salivary and intestinal secretions, and diabetic 
urine (in animals). The elimination of curaria has been dis- 
tinctly shown to take place, in part, by the kidneys. 

Woorara, or curaria, is only applicable to the treatment of 
those affections which therapeutically require motor depressants 
to antagonize the disease process. Among the most prominent 
of these are tetanus and hydrophobia. In tetanus good results 
have been obtained from its use in large doses, while from 
hydrophobia there are two reported cases of recovery. It has 
also been employed in chorea and epilepsy. The dose of woo- 
rara is from y 1 ^ to I of a grain. Of curaria, from gr. ^-^j to T -l^, 
hypodermically. Caution must be enjoined, as the samples vary. 

VIBURNUM. 

Viburnum is the bark of Alburnum prunifolium, commonly 
known as the Sloe or Black Haw (Xat. Orel. Caprifoliaceae). 
a small tree growing in thickets in the southern and western 
States, with opposite, oval, obovate, sharply serrulate leaves 
about two inches long, and short slightly marginal petioles. 
It has small white flowers in terminal cymes, appearing in May ; 
and small blue-black edible drupes containing a flattish smooth 
putamen. The bark is in thin pieces or quills of a purplish- 



262 MATERIA MEDICA— SPINANTS. 

brown colour, with scattered warts and minute black dots ; 
collected from the old wood it is grayish-brown, the thin corky 
layer easily removed from the green layer ; the inner surface 
is whitish and smooth ; it breaks with a short fracture; is with- 
out smell, and of a bitter, astringent taste (Stille and Maisch, 
Maisch). It contains valerianic acid, a brown bitter resin, a 
greenish-yellow bitter principle, tannin, etc. 

Effects and Uses, — The physiological effects of viburnum 
are not understood. It probably acts as a sedative to the 
spinal centres, especially those governing the uterine functions ; 
whether it influences the circulation or the blood supply to the 
uterus, or what action if any it has on the sympathetic gan- 
glionic system are questions for the future to determine. It 
is said that no disagreeable after effects attend its use. Vibur- 
num is highly recommended as a sedative in cases of threat- 
ened abortion whether accidental or due to the action of drugs, 
and is said to be especially serviceable where a tendency 
to abortion exists from habit. In these cases 5j may be given 
every two or three hours as long as the abortion is threatening. 
It is also recommended to allay the severity of after-pains, 
and is one of the numerous remedies which have been used for 
the relief of the vomiting of pregnancy. It has also been used 
with success in monorrhagia and metrorrhagia, depending on 
anaemia, debility or other systemic cause, and in monorrhagia 
accompanied with nervous symptoms appearing at the climac- 
teric period. It has been given in dysmenorrhoea with profuse 
discharge, and may be combined with other remedies in the 
treatment of neuralgic dysmenorrhoea. The fluid extract is 
officinal, and may be given in doses of f5ss-j. 

GRIN DELIA. 

Grindelia is the leaves and flowering tops of the Grin- 
delia robusta (Nat. Ord. Compositse), an herbaceous perennial 
plant growing to the height of one or two feet, indigenous to 
the Pacific coast. It resembles the common sunflower in its 
general appearance, and contains volatile oil and resin (Maisch). 



SUMBUL. 263 

Effects and Uses. — In large doses, grindelia has a decided 
hypnotic effect, during which the pupils are dilated and reflex 
action, motion and sensation are depressed. The cardiac action 
is slowed by grindelia, as are also the respiratory movements. 
It stimulates the gastro-intestinal mucous membrane, promoting 
the appetite and digestion, and is eliminated by the kidneys and 
broncho-pulmonary mucous membrane (Bartholow). It irritates 
the kidneys and increases the secretion of urine. Grindelia is 
very highly recommended in the treatment of asthma, especially 
in the uncomplicated spasmodic form, but has also proved useful 
when complicated with bronchitis, etc. In many cases of hay 
asthma and hay fever it has proved of much benefit. It is 
useful in pertussis, and is also recommended in acute and 
chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. It is administered advan- 
tageously in chronic pyelitis and chronic cystitis, acting on 
the mucous membrane as it is eliminated (Bartholow). Dr. 
H. M. Fiske recommends its internal and local use in iritis. 
It has been used as an injection in vaginitis and as a local 
application in poisoning by rhus toxicodendron, the latter with 
varying results. The fluid extract is officinal, and may be given 
in doses of TT]x-f5j. 

.SUMBUL. 

Sumbul is the root of the Ferula sumbul (JS T at. Ord. Um- 
belliferEe), a perennial plant, growing to the height of eight 
feet, with large triangular, tripinnate radical leaves and a few 
small cauline leaves. It is a native of Turkestan and eastern 
Siberia. The root reaches us through Russia, and is met with 
in transverse slices from one to five inches in diameter and 
three-quarters to two inches thick. It is light, spongy, annu- 
lated, with a thin brownish bark and a whitish interior, with 
numerous dots of brown-yellow resin and irregular, easily sep- 
arated fibres ; of a strong musk-like odour and a bitter, bal- 
samic taste. The root of the Dorema ammoniacum is sometimes 
flavoured with sumbul, but may be distinguished from it by 
being firmer, denser, and of a yellow or reddish tint (Stille and 



264 MATERIA MEDICA — SPINANTS. 

Maisch). Sumbul root contains a volatile oil, a soft resin, 
angelic and valerianic acids (Maisch). 

Effects and Uses. — The physiological effects of sumbul are 
not accurately known. It probably acts as a sedative to the 
brain and spinal cord. It was originally introduced into Russia 
as a remedy for cholera, and is still used there in asthenic dys- 
entery and diarrhoea. In England it has been used in dysmen- 
orrhoea, hysteria, epilepsy and various allied nervous disorders. 
Mr. Murawieff recommends it in chronic bronchitis in old and 
debilitated patients, in humid asthma, atonic dyspepsia, hypo- 
chondriasis and hysteria, and Phillips has seen it prove useful 
in chronic bronchitis and in certain stages of phthisis. He 
also recommends it in severe cases of facial, sciatic or ovarian 
neuralgia, and in the restlessness of pregnancy. Boehm 
(Ziemssen's Cyclopaedia) speaks favourably of it in delirium 
tremens. It is not much used in this country. The tincture 
may be given in doses of TT[x-f5j. 



EMETICS. 265 



CLASS II. — ECCRITICS. 

ORDER I. — EMETICS. 

Emetics (from f/^w, I vomit) are medicines which are em- 
ployed to promote vomiting ; when they are used merely to 
excite nausea, they are termed nauseants. When an emetic 
is administered, usually within fifteen or twenty minutes after- 
wards a feeling of distress, relaxation and faintness is experi- 
enced, with coolness and moisture of the skin and a small, 
feeble, irregular pulse. These symptoms increase till the con- 
tents of the stomach are ejected. During the act of vomiting, 
the face becomes flushed, the pulse is full and frequent, and the 
temperature of the body is increased. After vomiting is over, 
the skin is moist, the pulse soft and feeble, the patient becomes 
languid and drowsy, and, under peculiar circumstances, alarm- 
ing and even fatal syncope has been induced. Emetics act 
either directly on the centres of the medulla which govern the 
act of vomiting, or by the local irritation they produce, which, 
being conveyed to the centre probably by filaments of the 
pneumogastric nerve, produces vomiting in a reflex manner. 
In the former case, vomiting is produced by the drug, no 
matter in what manner it enters the system, and it is therefore 
called a systemic emetic ; in the latter, vomiting is only pro- 
duced by the introduction of the substance into the stomach, 
and it is hence called a local emetic. Dr. Marshall Hall gives 
the following summary of the mechanism of vomiting : " During 
the act of vomiting, 1, the larynx is closed ; 2, the cardia is 
opened ; and 3, all the muscles of expiration are called into 
action ; but, 4, actual expiration being prevented by the closure 
of the larynx, the force of the effort is expended upon the 
stomach, the cardia being open, and vomiting is effected." 

Susceptibility to the action of emetics differs in different 
individuals and in different diseases. In fevers, and where 
gastric irritation is present, their influence is increased ; and, 
on the other hand, when the brain is oppressed by disease or 



266 MATERIA MEDICA — EMETICS. 

by narcotic medicines, the stomach is exceedingly insensible to 
their action. 

Emetics are employed therapeutically — 1, to evacuate the 
stomach, for the purpose of removing poisons, undigested food, 
etc. ; and, with this view, the emetics should be selected which 
occasion least nausea and distress ; 2, to expel foreign bodies 
lodged in the throat or oesophagus ; 3, to excite nausea, and 
thereby depress the vascular and muscular systems ; 4, to re- 
lieve spasm, as in spasmodic croup ; 5, to promote secretion 
and excretion, etc. ; and, 6, sometimes to break up «, train of 
morbid association, by giving a shock to the system, as in the 
forming stages of certain fevers, as typhus and scarlatina, and 
of delirium tremens. They are improper in congestion of the 
brain, pregnancy, hernia, etc. The act of emesis is promoted 
by the free use of tepid drinks ; excessive vomiting may be 
checked by demulcents, opiates, counter-irritation to the stom- 
ach, etc. 

VEGETABLE EMETICS. 
IPECACUANHA. 

Ipecacuanha is the root of Cephaelis ipecacuanha (Nat. 
Ord. Rubiacese), a small shrubby perennial plant of Brazil, 
where it grows to the height of about five or six inches. The 
roots, as met with in the shops, are in pieces about the size of 
a quill, several inches long, of an irregular, twisted, contorted 
shape, with numerous circular rings or rug8e, from which they 
have been termed annulated. When broken, they are seen to 
consist of two distinct parts — a thin ligneous axis or centre, 
which is nearly inert, and a thick cortical layer, which has an 
herbaceous, acrid, rather bitter taste and a slightly nauseous 
odour. A distinction is made of black, red and gray ipecacu- 
anha, from differences in the colour of the epidermis ; but they 
are all derived from the same plant, and are the same in prop- 
erties and composition. The black is the most common variety 
in our market. The powder is of a light grayish-fawn colour, 
and has a peculiar nauseous odour, which in some persons ex- 



IPECACUANHA. 



267 



cites violent sneezing, in others dyspnoea. Ipecacuanha im- 
parts its virtues to both water and alcohol, but they are injured 
by decoction. Its emetic property depends on the presence of 
an alkaloid, termed emetia (C 28 H 40 N 2 O 5 ), which exists in com- 
bination with ipecacuanhic acid. Emetia is a whitish, inodor- 
ous, slightly bitter substance, sparingly soluble in water and 
ether, and very soluble in concentrated alcohol and chloroform. 
It produces vomiting in the dose of gr. J, and in overdoses may 
occasion dangerous and even fatal symptoms. Occasionally a 



Figr. 22. 




sophisticated root, that of Psychotria emetica, derived from 
New Granada, is found in the markets ; this is not annulated, 
but longitudinally striated, and contains less than half the 
quantity of the emetia found in the genuine root (1J per cent.). 
Physiological Effects. — Locally, powdered ipecac is an irri- 
tant to raw surfaces and to the mucous membranes, causing 
violent sneezing, etc. When rubbed into the sound skin it 



268 MATERIA MEDICA — EMETICS. 

causes pustulation and even ulceration. Nervous system : it 
stimulates the centre of the medulla oblongata which presides 
over the act of vomiting, and somewhat diminishes the reflex 
activity of the cord. Toxic doses (in animals) generally cause 
death by paralyzing the respiratory centres. The nerves prob- 
ably remain unaffected. Circulation : moderate doses probably 
do not affect the circulation; very large doses injected into the 
jugular vein of dogs have killed by cardiac paralysis. Tem- 
perature : in the mouth and on the surface the temperature 
falls in cases of emetia poisoning, but in the intestines it rises 
(from the irritant action of the poison). Secretion : repeated 
small doses relax the skin and increase the perspiration, saliva 
and the bronchial and gastric mucus. Rutherford states that 
it has the power of stimulating the secreting apparatus of the 
liver (in dogs), and that the consequent increased secretion of 
bile is normal in composition as regards the biliary matters 
proper. It also increases the secretion of intestinal mucus. 
Gastric-intestinal tract : it is an irritant to the stomach, pro- 
ducing vomiting by local irritation as well as by direct action 
on the medulla. Elimination takes place by the gastrointes- 
tinal mucous membrane, and also by other secretions. Post- 
mortem appearances : after death from ipecac, the stomach is 
found intensely congested ; the lungs are generally congested, 
and patches of hepatization are often found ; sometimes, how- 
ever, the lungs are exsanguine. 

Medicinal Uses. — In full doses, ipecacuanha is a mild and 
certain emetic, well adapted to the treatment of spasmodic 
croup and acute bronchitis in children, and to all cases where a 
simple evacuation of the stomach is desired. In smaller doses 
it produces nausea, depression of the pulse, expectoration and 
diaphoresis, and with these views it is employed in the treat- 
ment of pulmonary affections, dysentery, and inflammatory dis- 
orders generally. In still smaller doses it is useful as a tonic 
and stomachic. Ipecacuanha was first introduced as a remedy 
in dysentery, and, after being for a time laid aside, has been 
again used with marked success. It is also used with advant- 
age in the vomiting of sick headache, and will sometimes, when 



BLOODROOT. 269 

given in small doses, frequently repeated, arrest the nausea 
and even the vomiting of pregnancy. 

Administration. — Dose, as an emetic, gr. xv to gr. xx ; as a 
nauseant, gr. ss to gr. ij, three or four times a day; as an expect- 
orant or diaphoretic, gr. \ to gr. \, repeated ; as a tonic, gr. 
■fa, repeated. The fluid extract is used as an addendum to ex- 
pectorant and diaphoretic mixtures, foj representing Sj of 
the root; as an emetic, dose f oss-i ; the wine (vinum ipecac- 
uanha?) contains fluid extract 7 parts in stronger white wine 
93 parts; dose, as an emetic, foss-i; fluid extract, 5 parts, 
mixed with simple syrup), 95 parts, makes syrwpus ipecacuanha?, 
an excellent preparation for children — foj containing gr. xxx 
of ipecacuanha ; for a child a year or two old, f 5ss-j may he 
given as an emetic, and v-xx drops as an expectorant. Pulvis 
ipecacuanha? et opii (formerly called pulvis ipecacuanha? com- 
p>ositus, or Dover s powder) contains powdered ipecac and opium 
each gr. j, sugar of milk gr. viij (see Opium, p. 63). Troches 
of ipecacuanha (contain also sugar, tragacanth, and syrup of 
orange peel), each troche contains ipecac gr. J. Troches of 
morphine and ipecac each contain morphine gr. fa, ipecac gr. 
fa, with sugar, oil of gaultheria and mucilage of tragacanth. 



SANGUINARI A — B LOODROOT. 

The rhizome of Sanguinaria canadensis, or Bloodroot [N'at. 
Ord. Papaveraceae), a small indigenous plant, with radical, 
cordate, lobate leaves and a handsome white eight-petalled 
flower, which appears in early spring, is usually classed with 
emetics. When dried it is in flattened pieces, much wrinkled 
and contorted, of a reddish-brown colour, with a faint narcotic 
odour and a bitterish, very acrid taste. It yields its virtues 
to water and alcohol, and loses them rapidly by keeping. An 
alkaloid, sanguinarina (C 19 H 17 N0 4 ), has been obtained from it, 
which possesses the properties of the root. 

Effects and Uses. — Bloodroot is an acrid emetic, and, in 
large doses, an acro-narcotic poison. Locally, it acts as an 
irritant, and upon fungous surfaces as an escharotic. When 



270 



MATERIA MEDICA — EMETICS. 



inhaled, the powder causes violent sneezing. In large doses it 
causes collapse, dilated pupil, and sometimes convulsions of 
spinal origin, and diminishes reflex activity. After nauseat- 
ing doses the pulse and arterial pressure are increased, but 

Fig. 23. 




when enough is taken to produce vomiting the pulse is slow 
and irregular and the arterial tension is lowered. After poison- 
ous doses the respiration becomes shallow and slower, and 
death takes place from asphyxia, due to paralysis of the res- 
piratory centre. 



APOMORPHIA HYDROCHLORAS. 271 

Sanguinaria produces salivation and increases the secretion 
of the gastric mucous membrane. It stimulates the liver and 
intestinal glands, increasing the secretion of bile, but at the 
same time rendering it more watery (Rutherford). It is an 
active systemic emetic, causing much depression and irritation 
of the mucous membrane (Bartholow ; Robert Mead Smith, 
quoted by H. C.,Wood). It is not much used as an emetic, 
but is occasionally employed with this view in croup and diph- 
theria, or as an expectorant in pulmonary affections. In duo- 
denal catarrh and secondary catarrhal jaundice it has been 
used with advantage. It has also been used as an emmena- 
gogue in amenorrhcea. Dose, as an emetic, gr. x to xx, in pill, 
or in infusion (tgss to boiling water Oj — not officinal), of which 
f 5ss is the dose. Tincture — dose as an emetic, f 5iij or iv ; as 
an expectorant, TT]y-xxx. The vinegar (acetum) contains ten 
per cent, by weight of the powdered drug. The fluid extract 
is also officinal. 



APOMORPHIJ2 HYDROCHLORAS. 

Apomorphia is an artificial alkaloidal substance (C 17 H 17 N0 2 ) 
obtained by heating morphia with hydrochloric acid under 
pressure, the acid subtracting one molecule of water from a 
molecule of morphia, and leaving apomorphia (C 17 H 19 N0 3 =H 2 
+ C 17 H 17 N0 2 ). When apomorphia is treated with hydrochloric 
acid it combines to form the officinal salt. When pure it is 
a white powder, but it absorbs moisture readily, becoming 
green. 

Physiological Action. — In animals, in large doses, it at first 
stimulates the nerve centres and afterwards paralyzes them. 
Convulsions are produced, but their origin is not determined. 
Apomorphia is a poison to the muscular system. Small doses 
increase the cardiac action and elevate the pressure, but when 
large doses are taken, the cardiac movements are probably 
slowed and the pressure diminished. Very large doses may 
have a decided sedative action on the circulation (in man), and 
even induce syncope. Large doses at first increase the number 



212 MATERIA MEDICA — EMETICS. 

of the respiratory movements, but afterwards diminish them : 
poisonous doses cause death by asphyxia. This is due to the 
action of the drug on the respiratory centre. Apomorphia is 
chiefly of interest therapeutically on account of the emesis 
which follows its administration. It is a prompt and efficient 
systemic emetic, causing vomiting within a half hour after it 
is taken, which is repeated two or three times at intervals of 
about fifteen minutes, and is attended by little nausea and 
usually little or no depression. 

Medicinal Uses. — Apomorphia may be used as an emetic 
hypodermic-ally or by the stomach, in cases of narcotic poison- 
ing or where it is desirable to evacuate the contents of the 
stomach promptly. It has also been used as an expectorant in 
both acute and chronic bronchitis, and in suffocative catarrh of 
infants. Trousseau recommends it in haemoptysis. Dose of the 
hydrochhrate (the same as that of the pure drug) gr. J g hypo- 
dermically, or J or perhaps \ by the stomach. It should be 
given cautiously, on account of the depression which occasion- 
ally accompanies its action. 

Sinapis {Mustard). The powdered seeds of Sinapis nigra 
and Sinapis alba [Nat. Orel. Cruciferse), in doses of from a tea- 
spoonful to a tablespoonful, are very useful emetics, particularly 
in atonic conditions of the stomach. 

Tobacco and Lobelia act as emetics in large doses, but 
their employment is attended with danger, owing to the great 
prostration which they produce (see pp. 81, 83). Squill also 
possesses emetic powers, but it is too irritating for use in this 
respect. 

mineral emetics. 

Tartar Emetic. Dose, gr. j to gr. ij (see p. 228 
Zinc Sulphate. Dose, gr. x to gr. xx (see p. 162). 
Copper Sulphate. Dose, gr. iij to gr. v (see p. 160). 
Alum. Dose, a teaspoonful (see p. 191). 
Yellow Subsulphate oe Mercury or Turpeth Mineral. 
Dose, gr. ij to gr. v (see Mercuric Preparations). 



CATHARTICS. 



ORDER II. — CATHARTICS. 



Cathartics (from nadaipo, I purge), termed also purgatives. 
are medicines which produce evacuations from the bowels. 
Some operate by increasing the peristaltic motion of the intes- 
tines ; others stimulate the mucous follicles and exhalants, and 
occasion watery evacuations, whence they are termed hydra- 
gogues. The more violent of the hydragogues, if given in 
overdoses, produce inflammation of the alimentary canal, 
characterized by violent vomiting and purging, abdominal 
pain and tenderness, cold extremities and sinking pulse. From 
their activity they are denominated drastics. Different cathar- 
tics affect different parts of the alimentary canal unequally, 
some acting more particularly on the upper portion, some 
on the lower, and others affecting all parts equally. Mer- 
curial preparations purge chiefly by inducing a flow of bile 
from the liver. 

Cathartics may be arranged in five groups : 1. Laxatives, 
which gently evacuate the contents of the bowels, without 
causing any obvious irritation or affecting the general system. 
2. Saline cathartics, which increase both the peristaltic 
action of the bowels and the effusion of fluids from the mucous 
surface, but are devoid of any excitant action on the general 
system, and are therefore adapted to the treatment of febrile 
and inflammatory cases. 3. Mild acrid cathartics, which are 
acrid, but not sufficiently violent in their local action to cause 
inflammation. 4. Drastics, comprising the more powerful 
and irritating cathartics, which, in large doses, act as acrid 
poisons. 5. Mercurial cathartics. 

Cathartics are employed therapeutically — 1. To evacuate 
the bowels in constipation, and remove noxious matters, as 
retained feces, undigested food, morbid secretions, worms, 
poisons, etc. 2. To depurate the blood, as in typhus fever, 
uraemia, etc. 3. To relieve inflammation, congestion and 
plethora, by the depletion of the bloodvessels, which results 
from increased secretion and exhalation from the gastrointes- 
tinal canal. 4. To promote absorption. 5. To affect remote 
18 



274 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

organs, particularly the brain, through the agency of revul- 
sion and counter irritation. 6. To stimulate the secretion of 
the liver and pancreas, by irritating the orifice of the ductus 
communis choledochus. 7. In the treatment of diarrhoea. 8. 
To relieve spasms of the bowels. 9. To restore the catamenia, 
by the irritating influence which they exert on the pelvic ves- 
sels. The more active cathartics are contraindicated in cases 
of inflammation or ulceration of the gastro-intestinal mucous 
membrane, peritonitis, the advanced stages of typhoid fever, 
pregnancy, etc. 

The operation of cathartics is promoted by the addition of 
small doses of emetics and of the bitters. By combining those 
which act upon different portions of the alimentary canal, 
their operation is rendered less irritant, without any diminu- 
tion of purgative efficiency. The griping and nauseating 
tendency of the drastic cathartics may be corrected by the 
addition of aromatics ; carbonic acid water is a grateful vehicle 
for administering the saline preparations. Cathartics operate 
most speedily and favourably when given on an empty stom- 
ach, and susceptibility to their action is diminished during 
sleep, and increased by exercise. Mild diluent beverages 
promote their operation. In the event of hypercatharsis, 
opium should be administered by the mouth or the rectum. 

LAXATIVES. 

Several articles of diet have a laxative operation on the bowels, 
and are useful in cases of habitual costiveness, as most of the 
ripe and dried fruits — -particularly tamarinds, peaches, apples, 
raisins, figs and prunes — West India molasses, honey, bran, 
cracked wheat, Indian meal and oat meal, etc. 

The following medicinal substances are usually arranged 
under the head of laxatives, and are employed in cases where 
we wish to open the bowels with the least possible irritation, — 
as in children and pregnant women, in inflammation or sur- 
gical operations about the abdomen and pelvis, in typhoid 
fever, hernia, piles, affections of the rectum or womb, etc. 



MANX A. 275 

T A M A R I N D U S — TAMARIND. 

This is the preserved pulp of the fruit of Tamarindus 
Indica [Nat, Ord. Leguminosae), a large tree of the East 
Indies, cultivated extensively also in the tropical portions of 
America. It comes to the United States chiefly from the 
West Indies. The preserved pods, as found in the shop, 
consist of a dark-coloured adhesive mass, formed of pulp, 
fragments of the pods, seeds and syrup, of a sweetish acidu- 
lous taste. They contain a good deal of citric acid, with some 
tartaric and a little malic acid. An infusion of the pulp (§ss 
to boiling water Oj), sweetened, makes a pleasant refrigerant 
and laxative drink ; half an ounce to an ounce of the pulp is a 
good laxative. ' It enters into the confection of senna. 

MANNA. 

Manna is the concrete saccharine exudation, in flakes, of 
Fraxinus ornus and of Fraxinus rotundifolia (Nat. Ord. Olea- 
ceae), small trees of Sicily and southern Italy. It is obtained 
from incisions into the stems of the trees. The best kind is 
produced during the height of the season, when the juice flows 
vigorously, and from the upper stems, where it is less fatty. 
It is called flake manna or manna cannulata, and consists of 
pieces from one to six inches long, one to two inches wide, and 
from half an inch to an inch thick, of irregular form, but more 
or less stalactitic, hollowed out on one side (from the shape of 
the tree or substance on which they are concreted), of a white 
or yellowish-white colour, an odour like that of honey, and a 
sweet, afterwards rather acrid, taste. A common manna, 
called common manna, or manna in sorts, is obtained from 
incisions later in the season, and from the lower stems. It 
occurs in small pieces, which seldom exceed an inch in length, 
and are softer, more viscid and darker than the flake manna. 
A still inferior variety is termed fat manna, and consists of 
small, soft, viscid fragments, of a dirty yellowish-brown 
colour, mixed with a few pieces of the flake manna. Manna is 



276 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

soluble in both water and alcohol, and contains a white crys- 
talline, saccharine principle, termed mannite (C 6 H 14 6 ), not sus- 
ceptible of the alcoholic fermentation (found also in mushrooms, 
the olive tree and other plants), some sugar, and a resin to 
which it probably owes most of its purgative effect. 

Effects and Uses. — In moderate doses manna is nutritive ; 
in larger, mildly laxative. It is given principally to children, 
to whom its sweet taste renders it acceptable; and it is some- 
times combined with the more active cathartics. It may be 
taken in substance, or dissolved in warm milk or water. Dose 
for an adult, Sj to §ij ; for children, 5j to 5iij. 

VIOLA TRICOLOR. 

Viola tricolor is the wild-grown flowering herb of Viola 
tricolor, Heartsease or Pansy (Nat. Ord. Violaceae), an an- 
nual or biennial herb, native of Europe and northern Asia, 
naturalized in the United States and cultivated in our gardens. 
The stem is nearly smooth, and grows to the height of one-half 
to one foot ; the leaves are alternate, petiolate, ovate or oblong, 
crenate, and have prominent pinnatifid stipules. The flowers 
are on long peduncles, and have the corolla partly yellowish, 
blue and purple. It is without smell, and has a bitter, sub- 
acrid taste. It contains a bitter principle, resin, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — Heartsease is a mild laxative, sometimes 
proving diuretic and diaphoretic. It was formerly much used 
as a depurant, and was considered one of the most potent sub- 
stances for this purpose. It is occasionally given as a mild 
laxative to children, but its use is generally restricted to cases 
of eczema, psoriasis, pityriasis, etc. In these cases it is said 
to act almost like a specific. Piffard, who has used it exten- 
sively, recommends an infusion (V. tricolor, §i ; senna 
leaves, Sss ; boiling water, Oij), of which a tumblerful may be 
given twice a day for two or three days, after which the dose 
should be diminished. He finds it particularly serviceable in 
the second stage of eczema, with sero-purulent exudation and 
crusting. The fluid extract (Squibb's) may also be given ; 



CASTOR OIL. 277 

in acute eczema, dose for a child, tTLJ— v once or twice daily; 
in chronic eczema, TT1x-xv ; for an adult the dose is foss-j. 
It should be taken in water, half an hour before meals. Some- 
times it temporarily increases the severity of the eczema. In 
these cases it should be discontinued for a day or two, or the 
dose may be lessened. 

CASSIA FISTULA — PURGING CASSIA. 

This is the fruit of Cassia fistula (Nat. Orel. Leguminosae), 
a large tree of Egypt and the East Indies, now naturalized in 
the West Indies and South America. It consists of long 
woody, dark-brown pods, about an inch in diameter and nearly 
two feet in length, which contain numerous seeds imbedded in 
a soft black pulp. The pulp is the part used, and has a faint 
nauseous odour and a sweet, rather pleasant, mucilaginous 
taste. It is, in small doses, a mild, agreeable laxative, but its 
chief use is as an ingredient in the confection of senna. Dose, 

SjtoSj. • 

Oleum Oliv^ {Olive Oil). The well-known fixed oil 
obtained from the fruit of Olea europsea, or Olive Tree [Nat. 
Orel, Oleaceae), is nutritive, demulcent, emollient and laxa- 
tive. It is frequently prescribed as a constituent of laxative 
enemata. 

Oleum Amygdalae Expressum (Expressed Oil of Almond) 
is used for the same purposes as olive oil. 

OLEUM RICIXI — CASTOR OIL. 

Castor oil is the fixed oil obtained from the seed of 
Ricinus communis, or Palma Christi (Nat. Orel. Euphorbiacese), 
a small perennial tree of India, now naturalized in many warm 
climates, and cultivated extensively in the United States. In 
India it attains a height of thirty or forty feet, but in this 
country it is an annual plant, about five or six feet in height, 
with round, thick-jointed, furrowed stems, of a purplish colour 



278 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

above ; large peltato-palmate leaves, divided into seven or nine 
segments, on long round footstalks, and prickly, three-celled 
capsules, with a seed in each cell. The seeds are ovate, about 
the size of a small bean, and of a gray colour, marbled with 
reddish-brown spots and stripes. They possess considerable 
acridity, and in large quantities have produced death. They 
consist of a thin outer pellicle, an inner hard, blackish shell — 
both of which are inert — and a white oleaginous kernel, which 
contains the acrid principle. 

Castor oil is obtained by expression, by decoction, and by 
the agency of alcohol. The first method is the best, and is 
that which is pursued in this country, where large quantities 
are made, both for home consumption and exportation ; heat 
should not be employed in preparing it, as it renders it rancid. 
Thus procured, it is nearly colourless, or of a pale-yellow 
colour, of a thick, viscid consistence, a faint, unpleasant odour 
and a mild, nauseous taste, and becomes rancid and thick by 
exposure to the air. It is not soluble in water, but is ex- 
tremely soluble in alcohol, readily so in ether, and forms soaps 
with alkalies. Its composition is not well understood ; its con- 
stituents would seem to be mainly ricinolein (a saponifiable oil 
resembling olein), and a little stearin, palmitin, and an acrid 
principle. 

Effects and Uses.- — Castor oil is a mild and tolerably certain 
laxative, operating, when pure, in from four to six hours after 
its administration, without uneasiness in the bowels. It does 
not stimulate the liver nor increase the secretion of bile, but 
purges by a mild irritant action on the intestines (Rutherford). 
It is admirably adapted to all cases where a free evacuation 
of the bowels is desired, without abdominal irritation, as in 
dysentery, pregnancy, typhoid fever, etc., and is an excellent 
purgative for children. The leaves are said to possess galae- 
tagogue properties, and are applied to the breasts, in the form 
of decoction, to induce the secretion of milk. 

Administration. — For adults the dose is f§ss to fgj ; for 
children, foj to f§ss. To cover its unpleasant flavour it is 
sometimes taken floating on spirit, coffee, mint-water, com- 



SULPHUR. 279 

pound spirit of ether, etc., or made into an emulsion, or mixed 
with the froth of porter or a little oil of bitter almond. 

Flaxseed Oil and Melted Butter are laxative in the 
same doses as castor oil. 



SULPHUR. 

Sulphur exists in both kingdoms of nature. It is procured 
by the purification of native sulphur and by the decomposition 
of the native sulphides. The sulphur of commerce is gener- 
ally obtained in the former way, chiefly from Sicily, and is 
termed crude sulphur. It comes also from Romagna, in Italy, 
and from California, and very recently considerable deposits 
of sulphur have been found in the island of Saba, one of the 
Dutch West Indies. After importation it is purified by subli- 
mation, and is known as sublimed sulphur — sulphur sub- 
limatum. It is sometimes sublimed in the form of an impal- 
pable powder, when it is called the floiuers of sulphur. Some- 
times it is cast in wooden moulds, and forms the roll sulphur 
or brimstone of commerce. Sublimed sulphur contains more 
or less sulphuric acid, and for medicinal use it is further puri- 
fied by washing, when it constitutes the sulphur lotum or 
washed sulphur of the Pharmacopoeia. As met with in the 
shops, it is a fine bright-yellow powder, with a feeble odour and 
taste, insoluble in water, but soluble in alcohol, ether, chloro- 
form, alkaline solutions, and the oils ; and when perfectly 
pure it is wholly volatilized by heat, and ought not to change 
the colour of litmus paper. 

Effects and Uses. — In small and repeated doses sulphur is 
a gentle stimulant to the skin and mucous membranes, and in 
larger doses it acts as a mild purgative, without exciting the 
pulse or occasioning griping. It is probably absorbed by being 
converted in the small intestine, by the alkali of the bile, into 
a sulphide. After its continued use the intestinal gases give 
off sulphuretted hydrogen. It is employed in the cases to 
which laxatives are applicable, and also as an alterative dia- 



280 MATERIA MED1CA — CATHARTIC. 

phoretic in chronic cutaneous diseases, rheumatism and gout, 
and as an expectorant in pulmonary affections. It is consid- 
ered a specially useful laxative in hemorrhoids. To increase 
its cathartic effect it is often combined with cream of tartar or 
magnesia. Externally, it is a valuable remedy in various skin 
diseases, particularly scabies. 

Administration. — Dose, 5j to oiij or 5iv, in syrup, treacle 
or milk. Externally, it is applied in the form of vapour bath 
or ointment. Unguentum sulphuris consists of 3 parts of sul- 
phur and 7 parts of benzoinated lard rubbed together until 
thoroughly mixed. Unguentum sulphuris alkalinum {alka- 
line sulphur ointment) consists of sulphur, 20 parts, potassium 
carbonate, 10 parts, water, 5 parts, and benzoinated lard, 65 
parts, rubbed together until thoroughly mixed. 

Sulphur Pr^ecipitatum (Precipitated Sulphur, or Lac 
Sulphuris) is prepared by boiling together sulphur, slaked 
lime and water, and afterwards precipitating the sulphur by 
muriatic acid. It is a finer and softer powder than sublimed 
sulphur, is of a paler yellow colour, with a grayish tint, and is 
not gritty between the teeth. When exposed to the air, how- 
ever, it is liable to become contaminated with sulphuric acid, 
and, as found in commerce, it is often adulterated with sulphate 
of calcium. Its effects, uses and doses are the same as those 
of sublimed sulphur. 

Potassa Sulphurata (Sulphurated Potassa), or Liver of 
Sulphur, is prepared by rubbing together one part of dried 
sulphur with two parts of potassium carbonate, afterwards 
melting the mixture, and pouring it when cold into a bottle. 
Its composition is variable and uncertain, but it should contain 
about 50 per cent, of potassium sulphide. When freshly and 
carefully prepared it is of a liver colour, has an acrid, alka- 
line, disagreeable taste, and forms an orange-yellow solution 
with water. This preparation and the other sulphides proba- 
bly act like sulphur. They are perhaps in part decomposed by 
the acids of the stomach, but any liberated sulphur must be 
again combined with the alkali of the bile. Taken in large 
quantities sulphurated potassa is considered to be a corrosive 



MAGNESIA. 281 

poison, capable of producing fatal gastro-enteric inflammation. 
The sulphides are considered to be expectorant, diaphoretic and 
alterative. They have been especially recommended in the 
scrofulous abscesses of children — the calcium sulphide being 
preferred. Dose for an adult, gr. ij-x, several times a day. 
They are used externally in scaly skin diseases in the form of 
ointment (5ss to Si of lard) and of baths. 



SALINE CATHARTICS. 

MAGNESIA MAGNESIA. 

MAGNESIA PONDEROSA — HEAVY MAGNESIA. 

Magnesia, sometimes called calcined magnesia, from the 
mode in which it is prepared, is procured by exposing 
magnesium carbonate to a red heat, till the carbonic acid is 
wholly expelled. It is a light, fine, white, colourless, odourless 
powder (MgO), of a feeble, earthy taste, very slightly soluble 
in water, and more soluble in cold than in hot water. Heavy 
magnesia is a white, fine, dense powder, chemically identical 
with magnesia and differing with it only in the degree of ag- 
gregation of their molecules. Henry's Magnesia, a patent 
English medicine, has the advantage over the ordinary magne- 
sia of greater density and softness, and more ready miscibility 
with water, and corresponds to the officinal magnesia ponderosa. 
Magnesia prepared by Husband, and Ellis, of Philadelphia, is 
very similar in properties to Henry's. 

Effects and Uses. — Magnesia is antacid and laxative. A 
good deal of its cathartic effect is the result of its combination 
with the free acids of the stomach and intestines, in which 
soluble magnesian salts are formed. When taken in large 
quantities, and for too long a period, it sometimes accumulates 
in the bowels; and hence it is best to increase its solubility 
by giving it with lemonade. It is an excellent laxative where 
much acidity exists in the stomach, and is particularly useful 
in infantile cases. As an antacid it is employed in heartburn, , 
sick headache and nephritic complaints. Dose, as a laxative, 



282 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

5j ; as an antacid, 3j, in water or milk. Of Henry's, half the 
quantity. 

MAGNESII CARBONAS — MAGNESIUM CARBONATE. 

Magnesium carbonate, sometimes called magnesia alba, is 
prepared by decomposing magnesium sulphate with an alka- 
line carbonate. As found in the shops it is a combination 
of magnesium carbonate and magnesium hydrate (4MgCo 3 , 
Mg2HO,5H 2 0). It occurs in the form .of light, white cubical 
cakes or powder; is inodorous, almost insipid, and nearly in- 
soluble in water, but soluble in carbonic acid water. 

Its effects and uses are nearly the same as those of calcined 
magnesia ; but from its effervescence with the acids of the 
stomach, it is apt to create flatulence, though sometimes, on 
this account, more acceptable to delicate stomachs. Dose, as 
a laxative, 5j to 5'j ; as an antacid, gr. x. 

MAGNESII SULPHAS — MAGNESIUM SULPHATE. 

This salt, commonly called Epsom Salt, from its having 
been first procured from the Epsom mineral water in England, 
occurs in native crystals, and is a constituent of sea-water and 
many saline springs. It is obtained in England from dolomite, 
or magnesian limestone; and also from bittern, or the residual 
liquor of sea-water, from which common salt has been sepa- 
rated. In this country it is extensively manufactured at Bal- 
timore and Philadelphia, by the action of sulphuric acid on 
magnesite, the silicious magnesium hydrate. It is usually 
met with in small acicular crystals, which are colourless, trans- 
parent and odourless, but have an extremely bitter taste. 
They effloresce on exposure to the air, are very soluble in 
water, and insoluble in alcohol. The chemical composition of 
the salt is MgS0 4 ,7H 2 0, one atom of magnesium having taken 
the place of two atoms of the hydrogen of sulphuric acid, the 
salt thus formed being joined with seven molecules of water of 
crystallization. 



SODIUM SULPHATE. 283 

Effects and Uses. — Epsom, salt is a mild, safe, refrigerant 
purgative, which, from its cheapness, is b.y far the most com- 
monly employed of all cathartics. It produces free, watery 
purgation, with very little irritation of the intestines, stimulat- 
ing the intestinal glands, but not affecting the liver. Recently 
it has been found that hypodermic injections of small amounts 
of magnesium sulphate in solution will produce several watery 
stools. It is sometimes combined with senna, sometimes with 
bitter infusions, and is most agreeably administered in solution 
in carbonic acid water. Dose, Sj. 



LIQUOR MAGNESII CITRATIS — SOLUTION OF 
MAGNESIUM CITRATE. 

Magnesium citrate is employed medicinally only in solution, 
with slight excess of acid, and in the effervescing state. It is 
prepared according to the following formula: citric acid gr. 
400 are dissolved in water fSjv, and in this solution magnesium 
carbonate gr. 200 are stirred until dissolved: this solutionis 
filtered into a strong twelve-ounce bottle, containing syrup of 
citric acid f oij ; to this are added potassium bicarbonate gr. 
xxx, and water enough to nearly fill the bottle, which must be 
closed with a cork, secured with twine; the mixture must be 
occasionally shaken to insure the solution of the bicarbonate. 
The effervescing solution has a pleasant acid taste, without 
anything disagreeable. It is a very grateful cathartic, and is 
much employed as a substitute for Epsom salt, but is more apt 
to produce slight griping. Dose, from a half to a whole 
bottle. 

SODII SULPHAS — SODIUM SULPHATE. 

Sodium sulphate, commonly called Glauber s Salt, is a con- 
stituent of many mineral springs, and is prepared in various 
chemical processes. It occurs as a residuum in the manufac- 
ture of hydrochloric acid, made by adding sulphuric acid to 
sodium chloride, and it is obtained from sea-water in the winter 



284 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

season. It is found in colourless, six-sided, very efflorescent 
crystals, which are inodorous, but have a cooling, saline, very 
bitter taste. It is soluble in water — more readily in hot than 
in cold water — and is insoluble in alcohol. Its chemical com- 
position is Na 2 SO 4 ,10H 2 O, two atoms of sodium having dis- 
placed two atoms of hydrogen in sulphuric acid, and the re- 
sulting salt containing also ten molecules of water of crystal- 
lization. 

Its effects and uses are very similar to those of Epsom salt, 
but it is more bitter and nauseous, and is now little used. It 
is a mild hepatic stimulant, according to the experiments of 
Rutherford on dogs. The effects of the sodium salts have al- 
ready been considered (vide page 236). It has an anaplastic ac- 
tion on the blood, due to the sodium which it contains. Dose, 
oj ; in an effloresced state, 5ss. 



MANGANII SULPHAS — MANGANESE SULPHATE. 

This salt (formerly officinal as manganesii sulphas) is made 
by heating the native black oxide with concentrated sulphuric 
acid, and consists of one equivalent of sulphuric acid and one 
of manganous oxide (MnS0 4 ,4H 2 0). It occurs in rhombic, 
prismatic crystals, of a pale-rose or pink colour, transparent, 
and of an astringent, bitterish taste. It is very soluble in 
water, insoluble in alcohol. 

In its effects it is said to resemble Glauber s Salt, acting also 
as a cholagogue. Dose, as a purgative, 5i-ij« As a tonic it 
has been given in doses of gr. v-xx. 



SODII PHOSPHAS — SODIUM PHOSPHATE. 

This salt is prepared by digesting powdered burnt bone with 
diluted sulphuric acid, and decomposing the resulting monocal- 
cic phosphate with sodium carbonate. It is disodic phosphate, 
and occurs in large rhombic, colourless, transparent, very ef- 
florescent crystals (Na 2 HP0 4 ,12H 2 0), which are wholly soluble 



POTASSIUM SULPHATE. 285 

in water and insoluble in alcohol, and have a pleasant saline 
taste, resembling that of common salt. 

Effects and Uses. — Sodium phosphate is a mild saline ca- 
thartic, well adapted, from its agreeable taste, to the cases of 
children and delicate persons, but too expensive for general 
use. It is a hepatic stimulant, increasing the amount of bile 
secreted, although making it more watery, and having a very 
slight irritant action on the intestinal mucous membrane (Ruth- 
erford). It increases the alkalinity of the blood and dimin- 
ishes the amount of urea excreted. It is a constituent of the 
blood in health, and has been recommended in cholera as a res- 
torative of deficient saline matters to repair the drain on the 
system caused by chronic suppurations, and also in diseases 
where there is a deficiency of phosphatic matter in the bones. 
In all catarrhal conditions of the gastro-intestinal mucous 
membrane, notably in catarrhal jaundice, sodium phosphate is 
of the greatest utility. It is highly recommended also in 
chronic infantile diarrhoea with pasty stools (Routh). Dose, 
as a cathartic, 5vj to 5xij, in broth or soup. As an alterative, 
3j or 3ij, three or four times a day. 

POTASSII SULPHAS — POTASSIUM SULPHATE. 

This salt exists in both kingdoms of nature, and is obtained 
artificially from the residuum of the distillation of nitric acid 
from potassium nitrate and sulphuric acid. It occurs in small 
hard, colourless, inodorous crystals (K 2 S0 4 ), of a saline, bitter 
taste, which have no water of crystallization, and are unalter- 
able in the air. They are moderately soluble in water, and are 
insoluble in alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — The physiological effects of the potas- 
sium salts have already been fully considered (vide p. 233). In 
small doses it is considered a mild and safe cathartic ; but in 
large doses it has proved a violent and even fatal poison, pro- 
ducing symptoms of cholera. It is thought to act as a lacti- 
fuge, or represser of milk, and is administered with this view 
in France. Dose, as a cathartic, gr. xv to 5j or 5ij ; but it is 



286 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

little employed in this country. From its hardness and dry- 
ness it is useful to promote the trituration and division of 
powders. 

POTASSII BITARTRAS — POTASSIUM BITARTRATE. 

This salt, well known as Cream of Tartar, and termed also 
acid potassium tartrate, is the monopotassic tartrate (KH 
C 4 H 4 6 ), one atom of hydrogen of tartaric acid being displaced 
by one atom of potassium. It exists in many vegetable juices, 
particularly the juice of grapes, from which it is obtained. It 
is deposited in an impure form, during fermentation, on the 
sides of wine-casks, and in this state occurs in crystalline 
cakes, of a reddish colour, known as argol or crude tartar. 
This is purified by solution and crystallization, and forms a 
w T hite crystalline mass or powder, termed cream of tartar. 
It is without smell, has an acidulous and gritty taste, is very 
slightly soluble in water, and insoluble in alcohol ; when heated 
in a close vessel, it is converted into black flux, a compound of 
charcoal and potassium carbonate. 

Effects and Uses. — In small doses it is diuretic and refrige- 
rant ; in larger doses, cathartic ; and in excessive doses it will 
produce gastro-intestinal inflammation. It is employed to form 
a refrigerant drink, and as a gentle aperient in fevers ; and 
as a diuretic and hydragogue cathartic in general dropsy de- 
pending on valvular disease of the heart, and in desquamma- 
tive nephritis. Dose, as an aperient, 5ss or 5j ; as a cathartic, 
Sss to oj ; as a diuretic, 3ss to 5j, in repeated doses. It enters 
into the compound powder of jalap. 

POTASSII TARTRAS — POTASSIUM TARTRATE. 

This salt, formerly called Soluble Tartar, is obtained by 
saturating the excess of acid in cream of tartar with potassium 
carbonate, and is the dipotassic tartrate (2K 2 C 4 H 4 6 .H 2 0), two 
atoms of potassium replacing two atoms of hydrogen of the 
acid. Two molecules of the salt are joined to one molecule of 



RHUBARB. • 287 

water of crystallization. It occurs in white deliquescent crys- 
tals or grains of a saline, somewhat bitter taste, and is very 
soluble in water. It is a gentle cathartic and diuretic, at 
present not much used. Dose, §ss to Sj. 



POTASSII ET SODII TARTRAS — POTASSIUM AND 
SODIUM TARTRATE. 

This salt, commonly called Rochelle Salt, is made by satu- 
rating the excess of acid in cream of tartar with sodium car- 
bonate. It occurs in large transparent, colourless, prismatic, 
slightly efflorescent crystals, of a mildly saline and bitter taste, 
readily soluble in cold water, and still more so in hot water 
(KNaC 4 H 4 6 ,4H 2 0). It is a mild and pleasant aperient, well 
adapted to gouty cases and cases of uric acid lithiasis, but it 
renders the urine alkaline, and should not therefore be given 
to persons suffering with phosphatic deposits in the urine. 
Dose, oss to 5j. It is usually exhibited in the form of pulvis 
effervescens compositus (compound effervescing powder), or 
Seidlitz powder, which consists of Rochelle salt (5ij) and so- 
dium bicarbonate (3ij) in a blue paper, and tartaric acid (gr. 
xxxv) in a white papej. They are taken, dissolved in half a 
pint of water, while the liquid is in a state of effervescence, 
and form a very agreeable mild aperient, and are very accept- 
able to the stomach. They should not be kept in a damp place. 

MILD ACRID CATHARTICS. 
RHEUM- — RHUBARB. 

Rhubarb is the root of Rheum officinale, and of other spe- 
cies of Rheum (Nat. Ord. Polygonaceae). It is not known 
with certainty what species yields the officinal rhubarb, but it 
is believed to be derived chiefly from R. officinale, a perennial 
plant with a tall stem, from near the thick base of which numer- 
ous orbicular-ovate five or seven-lobed leaves grow, attaining 
sometimes a length of blade equal to four feet. It is a native 



288 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

of Thibet. Several varieties of rheuin are cultivated in Europe 
and this country, the leaf stalks of which make excellent tarts. 
Rhubarb is prepared for the market by being cleansed, de- 
prived of its cortical portion, cut into pieces, pierced through 
the centre, strung upon a cord, and dried in the sun. Three 
principal sorts were long known : Chinese, Russian or Turkey, 
and European. The first two were obtained, by different 
routes, from central Asia. 1. Chinese rhubarb is the 
common variety, and is imported principally from Canton. 
It occurs in roundish pieces, sometimes flattened, of a dirty 
brownish-yellow colour externally (the cortical portion appar- 
ently scraped off), having a ragged fracture (which presents 
red, yellowish and white veins), and is often perforated with 
holes, with portions of the cord on which it was dried occa- 
sionally remaining. It has a peculiar odour, an astringent, 
somewhat bitter taste, is gritty when chewed, and tinges the 
saliva of a yellow colour ; its powder is yellowish, with a reddish- 
brown tinge. 2. Russian rhubarb had probably the same source 
as the Chinese, but it was selected with greater care, and was 
rigorously inspected by the Russian government. It was 
carried in caravans through Russia to St. Petersburg, whence 
it was exported. The pieces are irregular in shape, and are 
often angular, from the cortical portion having been cut off 
and not scraped. They are less heavy and compact than the 
Chinese, of a livelier colour both externally and internally, 
and are perforated with larger holes, which have been made 
for the purpose of inspection. The taste and smell are very 
like those of the Chinese, but are more aromatic ; the powder 
is bright yellow. Russian rhubarb has, however, within a 
few years past disappeared as an article of commerce, the 
Russian government having abandoned the inspection long 
practiced on the frontiers of Bucharia, whence the supply was 
derived. 3. European rhubarb is of uncertain quality, and is 
seldom found in the shops. The kind most frequently met 
with is English rhubarb, which is thought to be derived from 
Rh. rhaponticum, and generally comes in pieces five or six 
inches long and about an inch thick, and is called stick rhu- 



RHUBARB. 289 

barb. It is lighter, more spongy and redder than the Asiatic 
varieties, with a feebler odour and less bitter taste, and when 
broken exhibits a more compact and regular marbling. Lately 
the production of English rhubarb has much increased, and 
its quality has improved. 

Rhubarb imparts its virtues to both water and alcohol, but 
they are impaired by long boiling. Its most important chemi- 
cal constituents are chrysophan, chrysophanic acid (C 15 H 10 O 4 ) 
(an orange-yellow crystalline substance, which is probably the 
active ingredient of goapowder, and will be considered in the 
article chrysarobin — vide Rubefacients), erythoretpi, emodin, 
pJioporetin, aporetin, rheotannic (C 26 H 26 14 ) and rheumie 
(C 20 H 16 O 9 ) acids. It is supposed that the therapeutical prop- 
erties of the drug depend chiefly on the conjoint operation of 
these principles. 

Effects and Uses. — In small doses, rhubarb is an astringent 
tonic. In larger doses, it is a slow and mild cathartic, occa- 
sionally causing griping and accelerating the pulse, but never 
inflaming the mucous membrane of the alimentary canal like 
the drastics. It tinges the milk and urine yellow. It increases 
the secretion of bile, which, however, is unaltered in composi- 
tion (Rutherford). It is much employed as a purgative in 
diarrhoea, in which it is particularly useful from its secondary 
astringent effect, and in dyspepsia attended with costiveness, 
where it acts both as a stomachic and laxative. It is not 
adapted to febrile or inflammatory cases. In the bowel com- 
plaints of children, rhubarb deservedly enjoys great popu- 
larity, and it is also highly esteemed in infantile scrofula. 
Made into a cataplasm and applied to the abdomen, it acts as 
a purgative on children. 

Administration. — Dose, as a stomachic laxative, gr. v to gr. 
x ; as a purgative, 3j to 5j. The following are the officinal 
preparations : Extract (alcoholic), dose, gr. x to gr. xxx ; 
■fluid extract, dose, f 5ss, containing half a drachm of rhubarb ; 
mixture of rhubarb and soda contains sodium bicarbonate, 
fluid extract of rhubarb and spirit of peppermint, each 30 
parts, water enough to make 1000 parts— an excellent prepa- 
19 



290 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

ration where rhubarb is indicated, combined with an antacid, 
especially adapted to children — dose for a child f 3ss-j, for an 
adult f3j-f§ss or more; aromatic tincture of rhubarb contains 
also cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg, and is used in making the 
aromatic syrup ; sweet tincture of rhubarb contains also liquo- 
rice, anise and cardamom; tincture of rhubarb and senna 
(Warner's gout cordial), tincture of rhubarb and aloes and tinc- 
ture of rhubarb and gentian are no longer officinal ; the dose 
of all the tinctures is f gss to f Sj, and they are chiefly adapted 
to low forms of disease and persons accustomed to the use of 
stimulants spills of rhubarb, each pill contains rhubarb gr. iij, 
soap gr. j ; compound fills of rhubarb, each pill contains rhu- 
barb gr. ij, aloes gr. jss, myrrh gr. j, oil of peppermint gr. -^ ; 
compound powder of rhubarb (containing 25 parts of rhubarb, 
65 parts of magnesia and 10 parts of ginger) ; syrup contains 
also cinnamon, potassium carbonate, sugar and water; aro- 
matic syrup (contains aromatic tincture 10 parts, syrup 90 
parts, much used in infantile cases under the name of spiced 
syrup of rhubarb) — dose for an infant f 5i ; and wine contains 
rhubarb 10 per cent, and calamus 1 per cent, in stronger white 
wine — dose f 5i-f oss. Roasting impairs the cathartic power of 
rhubarb, and is said to increase its astringency. 

Juglans {Butternut). The inner bark of the root of 
Junglans cinerea, or Butternut (Nat. Ord. Juglandacese), an 
indigenous forest tree, found throughout New England, the 
middle and western states and Canada, possesses cathartic 
properties resembling those of rhubarb. It is of a fibrous 
texture, a white colour, gradually changing to a dark brown, a 
feeble odour and a bitter, somewhat acrid, taste. It contains 
nucine, C 36 H 12 O 10 (composed of juglandicacid and juglone), some 
tannic acid, fixed and volatile oils, resin, etc. It is not given in 
substance; the extract (watery) is officinal, of which the dose. 
is gr. v-x as a laxative, and gr. x-xxx as a decided cathartic. 



ALOES. 291 



A L E — A L E S. 



Aloes is the inspissated juice of the leaves of Aloe soco- 
trina (Nat. Orel. Liliacese), a succulent herbaceous plant, grow- 
ing in warm countries. Aloes obtained from other varieties of 
aloe is used, but the Pharmacopoeia only recognizes Aloe soco- 
trina as the source of officinal aloes. The finest kinds are ob- 
tained by exudation ; those prepared by expression and by 
boiling are inferior. Three principal varieties are known in 
commerce : Cape, Socotrine and Barbadoes aloes, the first two 
of which are the most used in the United States. 1. Cape 
aloes (Aloe capensis\ which is much the most common, is ob- 
tained from the Cape of Good Hope, where it is collected in- 
discriminately from A. spicata and other species. It has a 
shining, resinous appearance, is of a deep-brown colour, with 
a greenish tint, translucent at its edges, and has a glossy or 
resinous fracture. Its powder is greenish-yellow; its odour is 
strong and disagreeable, but not nauseous. 2. Socotrine aloes 
(Aloe socotrina), when genuine, is the choicest variety. It is 
produced in the island of Socotra, on the eastern coast of 
Africa, from A. socotrina, and occurs in pieces of a yellowish 
or reddish-brown colour, becoming darker on exposure to the 
air, with a smooth and conchoidal fracture, the interior being 
lighter-coloured than the exterior. Its powder is golden-yel- 
low ; its odour peculiar, but not unpleasant, and its taste 
bitter and disagreeable, but aromatic. Hepatic aloes is prob- 
ably an inferior variety of Socotrine, and is seldom met with 
in our shops. It is of a reddish-brown colour, but darker and 
less glossy than the Socotrine. 3. Barbadoes aloes (Aloe bar- 
badensis) comes from the West Indies, the product chiefly of A. 
vulgaris ; it is imported in gourds. Its colour is not uniform, 
varying from a dark-brown or black to a liver colour. It has 
a dull fracture ; makes an olive-yellow powder ; and is dis- 
tinguishable by its particularly disagreeable, nauseous odour. 
The taste of all the varieties of aloes is intensely bitter and 
very tenacious. 

Aloes yields its virtues to water and alcohol. A neutral 



292 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

crystalline principle, termed aloin, has been extracted from it, 
which is supposed to be the cathartic principle. The resin of 
aloes, when exhausted of aloin, possesses no purgative properties. 

Effects and Uses. — Aloes, in small doses, is tonic, and in 
large doses purgative. As a cathartic it is remarkable for the 
slowness of its operation and its special action on the large 
intestine and the pelvic viscera generally. Hence it is objec- 
tionable in cases of disease of the genito-urinary apparatus, 
pregnancy, etc. ; and, on the other hand, is useful in amenor- 
rhoea. It stimulates the hepatic secretion also. It is principally 
employed in cases of dyspepsia accompanied by costiveness, 
dependent on a torpid condition of the large intestine or liver. 
It is also useful as a revulsive in cerebral affections, and has 
proved efficacious as an anthelmintic. It was once thought 
that it was objectionable in hemorrhoids, but this affection 
being how considered to depend upon relaxation of the veins of 
the rectum, aloes has been administered in it upon theoretical 
views, and with very good results. As a purgative it holds an 
intermediate rank between rhubarb and senna. 

Administration. — Dose, gr. v to gr. x-xx, in pill ; it is usu- 
ally given in combination with other cathartics. Aloes is so 
often mixed with impurities that, for medicinal use, it is best 
employed under the form of aloe purificata {'purified aloes), 
which is prepared by straining and evaporating an alcoholic 
solution of Socotrine aloes. The officinal preparations are : 
Pills of aloes, consisting of equal parts of aloes and soap, one 
pill containing aloes gr. ij ; pills of aloes and mastic, 4 
parts of aloes to 1 part of mastic and red rose, each (the 
Lady Webster pill, each containing aloes gr. ij); pills of aloes 
and asafetida, one pill contains of aloes, asafetida and soap 
gr. j J each, useful in flatulent constipation ; pills of aloes 
and myrrh, or Rufuss pills, aloes 4 parts, myrrh 2 parts, 
and aromatic powder 1 part, made into pills with syrup, em- 
ployed in amenorrhoea, each pill containing aloes gr. ij ; pills 
of aloes and iron, equal parts of aloes, dried iron sulphate 
and aromatic powder, made into pills with confection of rose, 
each pill contains aloes gr. j, very useful in amenorrhoea; tine- 



SENNA. 293 

ture (aloes and extract of liquorice (of each 10 per cent.) in 
diluted alcohol), dose, f 5j to f§ss ; tincture of aloes and myrrh 
(aloes and myrrh (each 10 per cent.) in alcohol); wine of 
aloes (aloes (10 per cent.), cardamom and ginger (each 1 per 
cent.) in stronger white wine). 



SENNA. 

Senna consists of the leaflets of several species of Cassia 
(Nat. Ord. Leguminosse), small shrubs which grow in the trop- 
ical regions of Asia and Africa. The species recognized as 
officinal are C. acutifolia and C. elongata; and besides these, 
C. obovata, C. lanceolata and C. ^ethiopiea are also generally 
received as sources of the drug. The commercial varieties of 
senna which are found in the United States are the Alexan- 
dria, the Tripoli, the India and the Mecca senna. 1. Alexan- 
dria senna, which comes from the port of this name in Egypt, 
is made up chiefly of the leaflets of C. acutifolia (which are 
yellowish-green, acute in shape, and less than an inch in length), 
intermingled with the pods, leafstalks, flowers, etc., of this plant. 
It contains also leaflets of C. obovata, known by their rounded, 
obtuse summits ; and is, moreover, occasionally adulterated 
with the leaves of Cynanchum oletefolium, distinguishable by 
their greater length, thickness and firmness from the genuine 
leaves. 2. Tripoli senna, brought from Tripoli, consists of 
the leaflets of C. sethiopica, which are shorter, less acute, 
thinner and more fragile than those of C. acutifolia, and are 
generally much broken up. 3. India senna is produced in 
Arabia, but comes into commerce through the ports of Hin- 
dostan. It consists of the leaflets, intermixed with the leaf- 
stalks and pods, of C. elongata, and is readily recognized by 
the long, narrow, jiike-UJce shape and dark hue of the leaflets. 
A finer variety of India senna, cultivated at Tinnevelly, in 
Hindostan, has been known for some years past, which is dis- 
tinguishable from the common sort of India senna by the 
bright-green colour of the leaflets. 4. Mecca se?inais a variety 
lately introduced, and consists of leaflets, intermediate in length 



294 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

between those of C. acutifolia and C. elongata, and has in mass 
a yellowish, tawny hue. Its source is not known with cer- 
tainty, but it is probably the product of C. lanceolata. Cassia 
obovata has been lately found growing wild in abundance in 
Jamaica. 

Commercial senna is prepared for use by separating the 
leaflets from the stalks, adulterations, etc. ; the pods possess 
cathartic properties, but are less active than the leaves. The 
odour of senna is faint and sickly; its taste bitter, sweetish 
and nauseous. It imparts its virtues to water and alcohol, its 
infusion being of a reddish-brown colour. The chemical com- 
position of senna has long been an unsettled point. By the 
latest analysis it has been found to contain a glucoside, cathar- 
tic acid, which is insoluble in water, stronger alcohol and 
ether, but which enters readily into watery solution with alka- 
line and earthy bases, in which state it exists in senna; this 
is actively cathartic. Catharto-mannit, smnacrol and chrys- 
ophanic acid have been also obtained; and there is probably 
another purgative principle which has not been isolated. 

Effects and Uses. — Senna is a prompt, efficient and safe 
cathartic, well adapted to febrile and inflammatory cases; it 
operates on the entire tract of the intestinal canal, and pro- 
duces watery, feculent discharges. Prof. Rutherford found 
that senna was a mild hepatic stimulant, and rendered the bile 
more watery. Its tendency to gripe may in a great measure 
be counteracted by combining aromatics or neutral salts with 
it ; the addition of bitters promotes its cathartic activity. 

Administration. — The dose in powder is 5ss to 5ij ; but it is 
usually given in infusion (a troy ounce to boiling water Oj with 
coriander 5j), one-third for a dose, repeated. Confectio sennce 
(made with senna, coriander, sugar, figs and pulp of prunes, 
tamarinds and purging cassia) is an excellent mild cathartic, 
much used for pregnant women; dose, 5\j. Of the fluid ex- 
tract the dose is f5i to f§ss; the compound infusion (black 
draught) contains senna, manna, magnesium sulphate and 
fennel; dose, foss to fSj or more. Syrup of senna contains 
senna, sugar, alcohol and oil of coriander; dose, f3j. Pulvis 



FRANGULA. 295 

glycyrrhizce compositus (compound powder of liquorice) con- 
sists of senna, liquorice, fennel, washed sulphur and sugar. It 
is an excellent purgative ; dose, a teaspoonful of the powder. 

LEPTANDRA. 

The rhizome and rootlets of Leptandra virginica, Culver's 
Root, or Culver's Physic (Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacese), an 
herbaceous perennial plant, three or four feet high, with 
leaves in whorls, and a long spike of white flowers, are ranked 
as a cholagogue cathartic. It consists of a dark-brown rhi- 
zome, from two to four lines in thickness, several inches in 
length, with numerous long, slender radicals. The odour is 
feeble and disagreeable, the taste bitterish and somewhat nau- 
seous and acrid. Water and alcohol extract its virtues, which 
depend on leptandrin. It also contains resin, saponin, tannin, 
mannit, etc. It is only a feeble stimulant to the liver and in- 
testinal glands, according to the investigations of Rutherford. 
Dose of the powdered root, gr. xx to 5j ; of an impure resin 
(made by precipitating a tincture of the root with water), 
gr. ij-iv; an extract and fluid extract also have been used. 

FRANGULA. 

The bark of Rhamnus frangula, or Alder Buckthorn (Nat. 
Ord. Rhamnaceae), is a mild purgative of some value. Fran- 
gula is a shrub growing to the height of ten feet or more, found 
in wet places along the northern coast of Africa, through- 
out Europe, and in Siberia. It has alternate oval leaves, 
slightly pointed at the apex, greenish flowers in axillary clus- 
ters and small red berries, which finally become black and 
contain two or three roundish-angular seeds. The bark comes 
in small quills, grayish or blackish-brown externally and 
marked with numerous small whitish, transversely elongated 
warts; inner surface is smooth, pale, brownish-yellow. It has 
no smell and a sweet and bitterish taste. 

It contains frangulin (C 20 H 20 O 10 ), emodin, resin, tannin, etc. 



296 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

When fresh the bark is an active emetic and hydrogogue ca- 
thartic, possessing irritant qualities, but it loses much of its 
acridity in drying, and it is therefore recommended by the 
Pharmacopoeia that it should be collected at least a year be- 
fore it is used. When dried it is a mild acrid cathartic, prov- 
ing also somewhat diuretic. It is also an anthelmintic of con- 
siderable value. The fluid extract may be given in doses of 
f5ss-j. 

CASCARA SAGRADA. 

Cascara sagrada or Chittem Bark is the bark of Rhamnus 
purshiana (Nat. Ord. Rhamnaceae), a small tree found on the 
Pacific slope, growing to the height of ten to twenty feet, 
with elliptic denticulate leaves, rather large white flowers in 
umbellate clusters and three-lobed, three-seeded black drupes. 
The bark comes in thin quills, with a grayish periderm, under- 
neath which it is of a reddish-brown colour ; the inner surface 
is smooth and yellowish. It is without smell, but has a bitter 
taste. It contains three resins which are probably the pur- 
gative principles. 

Effects and Uses. — Cascara bark is a good and efficient 
cathartic, acting probably by increasing the peristalsis of the 
lower bowel. It appears also to be a tonic to the unstriped 
muscular fibres. It is highly recommended in habitual consti- 
pation on account of its tonic effects. Dose of the fluid ex- 
tract, TT]x-f 5ss, beginning with the smallest dose three times 
a day and gradually increasing until a free morning evacua- 
tion is produced, after which the dose should be carefully de- 
creased, giving just sufficient to produce the necessary morn- 
ing evacuation. Cascara sagrada is not officinal. 



SAMBUCUS — ELDER. 

Several portions of Sambucus canadensis, our indigenous 
common elder (Nat. Ord. Caprifoliacese), a well-known shrub, 
from six to ten feet high, found in all the Atlantic States, pos- 



JALAP. 297 

sess medicinal properties. The floivers, which are officinal, 
are employed internally as a diaphoretic, externally as a dis- 
cutient. The inner bark, which is without smell, and has a 
taste at first sweetish, afterwards slightly bitter, acrid and 
nauseous, and contains a resin, with valerianic acid and other 
principles, is a hydragogue cathartic, and in large doses emetic. 
It is deemed a valuable remedy in dropsy, particularly in 
dropsy dependent on albuminuria, in which affection specific 
alterative virtues are attributed t® it. It is given in decoction 
(an ounce boiled with two pints of water to a pint) ; dose, f §iv. 
An infusion in cider is popularly employed. 



DRASTIC CATHARTICS. 
JALAPA — JALAP. 

Jalap is the tuber of Exogonium purga, or Ipomsea jalapa 
(Nat. Ord. Convolvulaceae), a climbing plant of Mexico, which 
derives its name from the city of Jalapa, near Vera Cruz. 
The tubers are imported usually entire, but sometimes in slices. 
When entire, they vary in size and shape from a walnut to 
a large pear, are hard and heavy — externally, brown and 
wrinkled, and internally, grayish, with brown concentric 
rings ; they are often furrowed with vertical incisions, made 
to promote drying. They have a heavy, rather naujseous 
smell and a sweetish, subacrid, disagreeable taste. They 
yield their virtues partly to water, partly to alcohol, and com- 
pletely to diluted alcohol. In the shops jalap is kept in the 
state of powder, which is of a yellowish-gray colour. Its 
active principle is a resin, which consists of two portions, both 
of which are cathartic ; one is soft and soluble in ether, the 
remainder is the glucoside convolvulin (C 62 H 100 O 32 ), insoluble 
in ether ; it contains also gum and starch, which is apt to be 
attacked by worms, the worm-eaten pieces becoming thus the 
most active. 

Effects and Uses. — Jalap is a powerful hydragogue cathar- 
tic, operating with great promptness, and often causing much 



298 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

pain. Rutherford found that jalap was a powerful hepatic 
stimulant, increasing the flow of bile, which at the same time 
was rendered more watery. It also increases the secretion of 
the intestinal glands to a marked degree. In overdoses, it 
may produce dangerous hypercatharsis. It is employed as a 
hydragogue in dropsy, when it is often combined with cream 
of tartar ; as a revulsive in cerebral and other affections, and 
to increase the activity of calomel in bilious fever. Dose, gr. 
xv to xxx ; in combination, gr. x. Of the abstract, gr. j equals 
gr. ij of the powder. The compound powder of jalap (pulvis 
jalapos compositus) contains one part of jalap and nearly two 
parts of cream of tartar. The resin is extracted by solution 
in alcohol, and afterwards precipitated from the tincture by 
water ; dose, from four to eight grains. 

BRYONIA BRYONY. 

Bryonia is the root of Bryonia alba and B. dioica (Nat. 
Ord. Cucurbitacese), climbing perennial vines, with rough, 
five-lobed, toothed, alternate leaves and cymes of three or four 
small greenish flowers, and black or red berries containing six 
large spotted seeds. The root is found in the shops in trans- 
verse sections about two inches in diameter, with a grayish- 
brown, rough, thin bark, the central portion being w T hitish, 
with small woody bundles arranged in circles, and projecting, 
radiating lines. It is without smell, but has a bitter taste. 
The active principle is probably bryonin (C 48 H 80 O 19 ), a neutral 
principle. 

Effects and Uses — Bryonia is a powerful hydragogue ca- 
thartic, resembling jalap in its action, but much more violent. 
It also acts on the kidneys, increasing their secretion. In 
large doses it has produced fatal gastro-intestinal inflamma- 
tion. Should symptoms of its irritant action appear, the drug 
should be discontinued and opiates and stimulants administered. 
In dropsies it may be used as a drastic cathartic, with a view 
of also acting on the kidneys. Phillips recommends it in the 
stage of effusions in pleuritis and pericarditis, in pleuro-pneu- 



MAY-APPLE. 



299 



monia, and where the joints are stiff and painful from rheum- 
atic affections. The tincture is the only officinal preparation ; 
dose, f 5ss-j or more. 



PODOPHYLLUM — MAY-APPLE. 

Podophyllum peltatum, May-apple or Mandrake (Nat. Ord. 
Berberidacese), is a very common indigenous herbaceous plant, 

Fie. 24. 




with a long creeping perennial root, and an upright stem 
about a foot high, separating at the top into two petioles, each 
supporting a large peltate leaf, divided into five or six lobes. 
At the fork of the petioles it bears a single flower, which ap- 
pears in May, the fruit ripening in September. The rhizome 
and rootlets are the parts used. The rhizome is found in the 



300 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

shops in wrinkled, jointed, cylindrical pieces, about two lines 
in diameter, of a brown colour externally, and yellowish within, 
having a tuft of about ten nearly simple fragile rootlets on its 
under surface. The powder is yellowish-gray, and has a 
sweetish smell ; its taste is at first sweetish, afterwards bitter, 
acrid and nauseous. Diluted alcohol is the best solvent of 
podophyllum, which has been found to contain, with the alka- 
loid berberina, two resinous cathartic principles, both soluble 
in alcohol, but one only soluble in ether, which is much the 
more active. 

Effects and Uses. — This is an active hydragogue cathartic, 
with an especial determination to the upper portion of the 
alimentary canal, and a pretty decided cholagogue action, 
which, according to Rutherford, is due to stimulation of the 
hepatic secreting apparatus, and is greater when purgation is 
not profuse, and vice versa. He also concludes that purgation 
is due to intestinal irritation. It is an ingredient in several 
cathartic nostrums. Dose, in powder, $j ; of the abstract gr. j 
equals gr. ij of the powder ; a fluid extract is also officinal ; of 
the extract (alcoholic), gr. v to gr. xv ; of the resin, gr. \ to 

g r - J- 

CHELIDONIUM. 

Chelidonium majus, known also as Celandine or Tetterwort 
(Nat. Ord. Papaveracese), is a perennial herb growing in waste 
places, indigenous to Europe, but naturalized in North America. 
The stem is about two feet high, and hairy ; the leaves are 
alternate, the upper ones sessile, light-green above and glau- 
cous beneath, lyrately pinnatifid, the pinnae ovate-oblong, 
obtuse, coarsely crenate or incised. The flowers appear from 
May to September, are of a bright golden-yellow colour, and 
arranged in small axillary umbels on long peduncles. Cheli- 
donium contains two alkaloids, chelerythrine (C 19 H 17 N0 4 , iden- 
tical with sanguinarine) and chelidonine (C 19 H 17 N 3 3 ), com- 
bined with chelidoninic acid, which appears to be identical 
with succinic acid. 

Effects and Uses. — The physiological action of this drug 



EUONYMUS. 301 

lias not been investigated. It has been- used as a hydragogue 
cathartic, and is said to possess narcotic properties. Binz and 
Phillips both believe that it has a stimulating effect upon the 
hepatic secretions, and class it with podophyllum and iris. 
Dose of the powder, gr. x-5j ; or it may be given in extract or 
infusion. There are no officinal preparations. 

IRIS. 

The rhizome and rootlets of Iris versicolor, or Blue-flag 
{Nat. Ord. Iridaceae), are used as a powerful hepatic stimulant. 
The Blue-flag is found in the swampy meadows of North 
America, having sword-shaped leaves and a stout stem, bearing 
a few blue flowers, appearing late in the spring of the year. 
The rhizome is horizontal and jointed ; is long and cylindrical 
in its lower half, broad near its upper extremity, and termi- 
nated by a circular scar, annulated from the leaf-sheaths, of a 
grayish-brown colour, with long rootlets crowded near the 
broad end. It has a slight odour and a nauseous, acrid taste 
(Maisch). It contains a resin to which probably its medicinal 
qualities are due. 

Effects and Uses. — In large doses the fresh plant causes 
violent vomiting and purging, with much depression ; in smaller 
doses it is a cholagogue and diuretic (Phillips). These quali- 
ties are impaired by drying. Rutherford found that iridin 
(an impure oleoresin) was a powerful hepatic stimulant, pro- 
ducing less intestinal irritation than podophyllin, but greater 
purgation than euonymin. It was also a decided stimulant to 
the intestinal glands. It is highly recommended in jaundice 
of malarial origin, and may be given with advantage in tor- 
pidity of the liver, dropsy and intestinal disorders. The fluid 
extract may be given in doses of TT|xx-f5j. An extract is also 
officinal. 

EUONYMUS. 

Euonymus or Wahoo is the bark of Euonymus atropurpureus 
{Nat. Ord. Celastracese), a handsome shrub of the northern 



302 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

and middle portions, of the United States, found in shady 
woods. " Its branches are slightly quadrangular ; the leaves 
opposite, petioled, elliptic-ovate, serrate, and pointed ; the 
flowers dark-purple, in loose cymes of three to six, and appear 
in June." The fruit matures in the autumn, and consists of 
pendulous capsules of a bright crimson colour. The bark, as 
seen in the shops, is of a grayish colour, mottled with blackish 
patches on its outer surface, which is detached in thin and 
small scales ; inner surface tawny and smooth. It is without 
smell, and has at first a sweetish taste, which afterwards be- 
comes bitter and acrid. It contains a bitter principle, euony- 
min, resins, euonic acid, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — Euonymus is an excellent cathartic, in- 
creasing the intestinal secretions to some extent, and acting as 
a powerful hepatic stimulant. It may be advantageously used 
in cases of torpor of the liver and intestines. The extract is 
the only officinal preparation ; dose, gr. iij-v. 



S C A M M N I U M — SCAMMONY. 

Scammony is a resinous exudation from the root of Con- 
volvulus scammonia (Nat. Ord. Convolvulacese), a twining 
plant of Syria. The finest kind is the product of exudation 
from the sliced root; but most of the drug which reaches us is 
probably obtained by expression, or by evaporation of a decoc- 
tion of the root. It comes from the Levant. Genuine scam- 
mony, termed Virgin Scammony, occurs in light irregular 
friable pieces, of various shades of colour from dark-ash to 
dark-olive, covered with a whitish-gray powder, and breaking 
with a bright-greenish fracture; they should not effervesce 
with an acid. The scammony of the shops, which is always 
more or less adulterated, is in hard, heavy, saucer-shaped 
cakes, from four to six inches in diameter (sometimes broken 
into pieces), of a dark-ash or slate colour. The powder is 
light-gray ; the smell disagreeable, like that of old cheese, the 
taste at first feeble, afterwards bitterish and acrid. Scammony 
is a gum-resin, the resin constituting from 80 to 90 per cent. 



COLOCYNTH. 303 

of the weight of good scammony. The active medicinal prin- 
ciple is scammonin (C 34 H 56 ]6 ), a colourless, tasteless resinous 
substance, having a peculiar faint, sweetish smell, and soluble 
in alcohol and ether. 

A factitious scammony made in France, and known as 
Montpellier Scammony, is occasionally imported into the United 
States. It is blacker than the genuine article, has a feeble 
balsamic odour and a very bitter, nauseous taste. 

Effects and Uses. — Scammony is an energetic hydragogue 
cathartic, operating sometimes with great violence, and seldom 
given except in combination with other cathartics. Dose, gr. 
v to gr. xv of the pure drug, gr. x to gr. xxx of the drug of 
the shops ; of the resin, gr. iv to gr. viij. Scammony resin is 
of pleasanter smell and taste than jalap resin, produces less 
griping, and is less apt to cause vomiting. It is much used in 
the form of compound extract of colocynth. 



COLOCYNTHIS — COLOCYNTH. 

Colocynth is the fruit (deprived of its rind) of Citrullus 
colocynthis or Bitter Cucumber {Nat. Ord. Cucurbitacese), an 
annual plant of the south of Europe and parts of Asia and 
Africa, resembling the common watermelon. The fruit has a 
thin but hard rind, but is peeled and dried for exportation, and 
comes to us from the Levant. It consists of light whitish, 
spongy balls, about the size of a small orange, filled with nu- 
merous seeds. For medicinal use the pulp only is employed, 
and the seeds, which are inactive, are rejected. The pulp has 
a feeble odour and a nauseous, intensely bitter taste. It yields 
its virtues to both water and alcohol, and contains a peculiar 
glucoside termed colocynthin (C 56 H 84 23 ), resin, colocyn- 
thitin, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — Colocynth is a hepatic stimulant, in- 
creasing the amount of the biliary constituents as well as render- 
ing the bile more watery and at the same time stimulating the 
intestinal glands (Rutherford). It is a violent hydragogue cathar- 



•304 MATERIA MEDICA — DRASTIC CATHARTICS. 

tic, acting sometimes very harshly even in small doses, and in 
overdoses producing dangerous, and occasionally fatal, enteric 
inflammation. Its chief use is to unload the bowels in obstinate 
constipation. The dose is gr. v to gr. x. It is seldom, how- 
ever, administered alone. The extract (alcoholic) is used chiefly 
in the preparation of the compound extract, which contains also 
aloes, resin of scammony, cardamom and soap ; this is a favour- 
ite prescription, but it is apt to gripe, and it is well to combine 
some aromatic with it, as a little oil of cloves or capsicum : 
dose, gr. v-x. 

CAMBOGIA — GAMBOGE. 

Gamboge is a gum-resin procured from Garcinia hanburii 
(Nat. Ord. Guttiferse), a tree of Siam and Cochin-China. The 
juice is said to be collected, as it exudes from the wounded 
bark of the tree, in cocoa-nut shells, and is afterwards rolled 
into cylinders, or transferred to earthen jars to dry ; it is some- 
times also received into the hollow joints of the bamboo. It 
is imported from Canton and Calcutta, and occurs in cylin- 
drical rolls from one to three inches in diameter, of an orange 
colour, known as pipe gamboge, or in irregular masses (which 
are less pure), weighing two to three pounds or more, called 
cake or lump gamboge. Good gamboge is opaque, brittle, in- 
odorous, nearly insipid, and breaks with a vitreous fracture ; 
its powder is bright-yellow. It is a gum-resin, forming a yel- 
low, opaque solution with water and a golden-yellow 
solution with alcohol ; it contains from 20 to 25 per cent, 
of gum and from 75 to 80 per cent, of a resin termed cambogic 
acid (C 20 H 23 O 4 ). 

Effects and Uses. — Gamboge is a powerful hydragogue, and 
in overdoses has proved fatal. Sometimes it vomits, and in 
large amounts has produced death merely from depression. 
It is employed in obstinate constipation ; in dropsies, combined 
with cream of tartar or jalap ; and has been given to destroy 
taenia. Dose, gr. ij to gr. vj. It is usually prescribed with 
other and milder cathartics, to promote and accelerate their 



ELATERIN. 305 

action. Compound cathartic pills (pilulse catharticse composi- 
te) are made by mixing compound extract of colocynth (gr. 
130), extract of jalap and calomel (of each, gr. 100), and gam- 
boge (gr. 25), and with water forming a pilular mass, to be 
divided into 100 pills. Three of the pills, containing 10J 
grains of the mass, represent 4 grains of compound extract of 
colocynth, 3 of extract of jalap and calomel each, and {■ grain 
of gamboge. 

ELATERINU M — E L A T E R I N. 

Elaterin (C 20 H 28 O 5 ) is a neutral principle extracted from 
elaterium, a substance deposited by the juice of the fruit of 
Ecballium elaterium, or Squirting Cucumber (Nat. Ord. Cu- 
curbitacese), an annual vine of the south of Europe, now cul- 
tivated in England. The fruit has the shape of a small oval 
cucumber, and, when fully ripe, separates from the peduncle, 
and throws out its juice and seeds with considerable force, 
through an opening in the base. Pure elaterium is obtained 
by slicing the fruit and allowing the juice to drain through a 
sieve. The juice deposits a sediment, which dries in very light, 
thin, nearly flat, pulverulent, greenish-gray cakes, and is the 
genuine elaterium. It is almost inodorous, and has a bitter, 
acrid taste. The commercial elaterium, which is obtained 
chiefly from England, is made by expression. The drug is to 
•be considered inferior when it is dark-coloured, much curled 
and hard. Elaterium yields its virtues to alcohol and no.t to 
water. Elaterin, its active principle, crystallizes in beautiful 
colourless, needle-shaped crystals, without smell, but of a 
bitter, sharp taste, insoluble in water, but readily soluble in 
alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — Elaterium is a hydragogue cathartic of 
great violence of operation, and in overdoses has frequently 
proved fatal. It has also a diuretic action. It is a very effi- 
cient remedy in the treatment of dropsies, and is also a useful 
revulsive in cerebral affections ; but in administering it con- 
siderable caution is required. Elaterin proves powerfully 
cathartic in doses of J^ to t 1 ^ °f a g ra i n - 
20 



806 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

Trituration of elaterin (trituratio elaterini) consists of elat- 
erin 10 parts and sugar of milk 90 parts, thoroughly tritu- 
rated ; dose. gr. J-j. It is safest to begin with a small dose. 



OLEUM TIGLI I — C ROTON OIL. 

Croton oil is a fixed oil obtained from the seeds of Croton 
tiglium (Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacese), a small tree of the East 
Indies. The croton seeds resemble the castor seeds in shape 
and size, and consist of a blackish shell, sometimes covered 
with a yellowish-brown epidermis, and enclosing a yellowish 
oily kernel. They are highly irritant and cathartic, but are 
not imported into this country. They contain a volatile oil, a 
fixed oil, resin, acetic, butyric and valerianic acids, together 
with an acid termed tiglinic (C 5 H 8 2 ). The croton oil of 
the shops is obtained by expression, and is a mixture of the 
fixed oil proper, the resin and tiglinic acid. A principle 
termed crotonol is said to produce the peculiar inflammation of 
the skin. The oil is made in both India and England, the 
Indian oil being of a pale straw colour, and the English red- 
dish-brown ; the latter is the variety now found in the shops. 
It has a viscid consistence, which is increased by age, a faint, 
peculiar odour and an extremely acrid, pungent taste ; it is 
soluble in ether and the volatile and fixed oils, and partially so 
in alcohol. 

Physiological Effects. — Croton oil, taken internally, is a 
powerful hydragogue purgative, occasionally increasing also 
the secretion from the kidneys. One or two drops are usually 
sufficient to produce active catharsis, but sometimes as much as 
eight or ten drops may be taken without affecting the bowels. 
It operates very speedily, often causing evacuations in half an 
hour, and is apt to produce considerable sedation of the vas- 
cular system. In overdoses it has frequently proved fatal, 
destroying life rather by its depressing influence on the func- 
tions of organic life through the nervous system than by a 
local irritant action. Rubbed on the skin, croton oil causes 



MERCURIAL CATHARTICS. 307 

rubefaction and pustular or vesicular eruption ; and rubbed 
over the abdomen it will sometimes purge. 

Medicinal Uses. — Croton oil, from the smallness of the dose 
required and the speediness of its action, is an extremely 
valuable purgative in obstinate constipation, and in cerebral 
disorders, particularly coma. As a counter-irritant, it has 
been employed in pulmonary and laryngeal affections, diseases 
of the joints, etc. Dose, one or two drops made into pill with 
bread-crumb. For external use, it may be diluted with one or 
two parts of olive oil or oil of turpentine. 

MERCURIAL CATHARTICS. 

The preparations of* mercury employed as cathartics are 
calomel and blue fill. Their purgative effects depend partly 
on the increased flow of bile which they occasion, and partly 
on the stimulus which they give to secretion from the mucous 
follicles of the intestinal canal and from the pancreas. They 
probably do not increase the amount of bile secreted, but by 
irritation of the orifice of the duct they cause reflex contraction 
of the ducts and the gall-bladder, and consequently expulsion 
of that already secreted. They are rarely employed alone, 
owing to the slowness and uncertainty of their action, but are 
usually combined with or followed by other cathartics (as jalap, 
senna, rhubarb, compound extract of colocynth, or some of the 
saline preparations). The mercurial cathartics are usually 
administered with a view of combining a purgative action with 
an effect on the secretions, particularly that of the liver ; also 
as anthelmintics and as revulsives in cerebral and other affec- 
tions. They are well adapted to infantile cases, from the 
facility of their administration, and are especially beneficial in 
the ephemeral febrile attacks to which children are subject ; 
they, moreover, rarely produce salivation in children. 

Hydrargyri Chlorldum Mite (Mild Chloride of Mercury, 
or Calomel). (Noticed at length under the head of Alteratives.) 
Dose, as a cathartic, gr. vi to xij, in pill or in powder, with 
syrup or molasses ; to be followed, in from four to six hours, 



308 MATERIA MEDICA — CATHARTICS. 

by some other cathartic. Sometimes, when it is exhibited with 
a view to a full action on the liver, gr. J to ij may be given 
every hour or two, until the whole purgative dose is taken ; or 
it may be administered at bedtime, with an aperient draught 
the next morning. For children, larger doses are required in 
proportion than for adults : gr. iij-vj may be given to a child 
from three to six years old. Calomel occasionally causes 
griping pain in the bowels, with bilious vomiting ; this is 
attributable, not to any irritant qualities in the medicine, but 
to the acrid character of the bile secreted. Calomel is an 
ingredient of the compound cathartic pills. 

Massa Hydrargyri (Mass of Mercury), commonly called 
blue pill or blue mass (see Alteratives), is analogous in its 
cathartic action to calomel, but milder and less certain. It is 
given in about the same doses and in the same combinations, 
etc. 

ENEMATA. 

In cases of irritability of the stomach — or with the view of 
hastening the action of cathartics taken by the mouth — or 
to remove feculent accumulations in the lower bowels — or to 
relieve tympanites — or for the purpose of revulsion, or the 
removal of ascarides, cathartic enemata are frequently admin- 
istered. 

When it is desired simply to open the bowels mechanically, 
tepid water, flaxseed tea or other demulcent infusion may be 
employed. The common laxative enema consists of a table- 
spoonful of common salt, molasses and lard or olive oil, each, 
in two-thirds of a pint of warm water ; castor oil or Epsom 
salt may be added to increase the cathartic effect. Senna tea 
or some other cathartic infusion is often employed. To relieve 
flatulency, oil of turpentine (f Sss to f§j, in emulsion) or milk 
of asafetida (f §ij to f Siv) may be given. The latter is an excel- 
lent preparation in infantile cases. For the removal of ascarides 
infusion of quassia is an excellent enema. In some cases, as in- 
vagination of the intestines, or even in hernia, much good may 
be accomplished by the gradual distension of the bowel by means 



ENEMATA. 309 

of forced enemata of warm water. This is accomplished by 
means of a long flexible rubber tube, one end of which is 
armed with a rectal tube having a blunt conical point and sev- 
eral large openings to admit of the free passage of the water. 
The other end of the flexible tube is attached to a large funnel, 
and the tube has a stop-cock upon it. By elevating the funnel 
and filling it with water, a continual stream can be thrown into 
the bowel, the force being regulated by the height at which 
the funnel is held and by the stop-cock. In this way from five 
to ten pints of water can be thrown into the bowel, filling the 
large intestine and even passing the ileocoecal valve. The injec- 
tion should be conducted slowly and carefully. Several cases 
of invagination have been reported where the symptoms sub- 
sided under this treatment, the invaginated portion of the in- 
testine having slipped back to its proper place during the dis- 
tension. This method should not be resorted to when there is 
reason to think that sphaselas of the bowel is taking place, as 
it might result in a rupture. 

ORDER III. — DIAPHORETICS. 

Diaphoretics (from Sca^opeo), I transpire), called also sudorifics, 
are medicines which promote transpiration from the skin. The 
action of the cutaneous exhalants may be increased by various 
means. The mere introduction of a large quantity of fluid into 
the system will produce sweating, if the system be kept warm. 
Exercise and a warm temperature, by determining a flow of 
blood to the cutaneous vessels, act in the same way. Nause- 
ants occasion diaphoresis by relaxing the orifices of the cu- 
taneous vessels ; stimulants, by exciting them to increased 
secretion. Diaphoretics are employed therapeutically for their 
evacuant, revulsive and alterative effects, and to promote ab- 
sorption. Different classes of diaphoretics are required for dif- 
ferent morbid conditions. 

1. Nauseating Diaphoretics. — Most of the emetics, in nause- 
ating doses, produce a powerfully relaxing diaphoretic action, 
and are much employed, with this view, in inflammatory cases, 



310 MATERIA MEDICA — DIAPHORETICS. 

when not contraindicated by the presence of gastric irritability. 
The Preparations of Antimony (see p. 228) and Ipecacu- 
anha (see p. 266) are chiefly resorted to as nauseating diapho- 
retics. Ipecacuanha is often given as a diaphoretic, in 
combination with opium, in the form of Dover s Powder (see 
p. 63). 

2. Refrigerant Diaphoretics. — The saline and ethereal prep- 
arations classed as refrigerants (see p. 235) produce a gentle 
relaxing diaphoretic action, unattended with nausea. They 
are used to allay febrile excitement and reduce the temperature 
of the body. 

3. Stimulating Diaphoretics. — This group includes the diffu- 
sible stimulants, aromatic substances generally, of every class, 
and many narcotics, particularly opium and camphor. They 
are contraindicated in high inflammation, but are very serv- 
iceable in rheumatic and pulmonary affections, after vascular 
excitement has been reduced, and in all diseases where the 
surface of the body is cold. Opium, in the form of Dover's 
Powder, may be employed in inflammatory cases, where other 
stimulating diaphoretics are inadmissible, and is given with 
advantage in an early stage of acute rheumatism, dysentery 
and catarrh, unless tire action of the pulse be very strong, 
when this should be previously moderated. The operation of 
the diaphoretic stimulants is promoted by the free use of warm 
diluent drinks, and warm covering to the body. 



PILOCARPUS — JABORANDI. 

Pilocarpus is the leaflets of Pilocarpus pennatifolius (Nat. 
Ord. Rutaceae), a shrub of some of the northern provinces of 
Brazil, growing to the height of about five feet, with a long 
cylindrical root, about three-quarters of an inch in thickness, 
and imparipinnate leaves about nine inches long, with from 
three to five pairs of opposite, oblong-lanceolate, grayish-green 
leaflets, with an odd terminal one, which are dotted with a 
number of pellucid glands. There are several plants known in 
South America under the name of Jaborandi, and the variety 



JABORANDI. 311 

brought here is from Pernambuco. The leaflets have a charac- 
teristic odour (resembling a mixture of Indian hemp, matico 
and cubeb) and a warm, sharp, aromatic taste. They yield 
jrilocarpina (C^H^IS^OJ, an alkaloid of a bitter, nauseous, 
astringent taste, soluble in water, alcohol, ether, chloroform 
and diluted acids ; they contain also a volatile oil. 

Physiological Effects. — The action of jaborandi has been 
studied by Ringer, Murrell, Langley, Harnack and Meyer, 
and many others, with the following results. It paralyzes the 
vaso-motor nervous system, and rapidly increases the circulation, 
but the pulse is soon slowed and the arterial tension is greatly 
increased. The temperature, as a rule, rises at first, but coin- 
cident with the profuse sweating, is lowered. It is a power- 
ful diaphoretic, increasing both the watery and solid ingredi- 
ents of the sweat enormously, probably by a direct action on 
the peripheral endings of the nerves. The amount of urea 
eliminated by the skin is especially increased. The sweat is 
said to be acid at first, becoming neutral and finally alkaline. 
It also causes salivation, which is sometimes very profuse, in 
which case the diaphoretic effect is less marked, and vice versa. 
The sialagogue effect probably depends on a direct action of the 
drug on the glands. The gastric and bronchial secretions are 
also increased. These effects continue for from three to six 
hours. Disturbance of the vision, contracted pupils, uneasi- 
ness of the head, and after a time vomiting, generally accom- 
pany these eccritic results, often followed by drowsiness. In 
much of its action, especially on the secretions, an antagonism 
exists between jaborandi and belladonna. Jaborandi appears 
to stimulate the nutrition of the hair (Wood, H. C). It is 
eliminated by the secretions on which it acts. 

Medicinal Uses. — Jaborandi should not be given in affec- 
tions of the gastro-intestinal mucous membrane, nor in weak 
heart due to disease of the cardiac muscle or ganglia or of the 
valves (Bartholow). In cases of pleuritic effusion, especially 
after the subsidence of the inflammatory symptoms, jaborandi 
or its alkaloid often quickly removes the exudation. In renal 
dropsy and in uraemia it is often invaluable on account of its 



312 MATERIA MEDICA — DIAPHORETICS. 

diaphoretic effects and because it increases the elimination 
of urea by the skin. It has also been used with success in 
puerperal convulsions due to kidney disease, in humid asthma 
and bronchorrhoea, in some cases of parotitis, and as an agent to 
increase the secretion of milk. It is recommended in polyurea 
and in squammous affections of the skin, and has been used lo- 
cally and hypodermically with success in alopecia (Bartholow). 
In diphtheria it has been used with varying success, but on the 
whole the evidence can scarcely be considered in favor of its 
employment. Dose of the fluid extract, f 5ss-j ; of pilocarpine 
hydrochlorate, gr. J— ss. Children bear proportionally large 
doses. 

ALTERATIVE DIAPHORETICS. 

Under this head are comprised a class of diaphoretic medi- 
cines which produce a gradual and nearly insensible increase 
of the cutaneous secretion, and are supposed to promote the 
elimination of noxious matters from the blood through the 
vessels of the skin. They are employed chiefly in chronic 
rheumatic and cutaneous affections, and in secondary syphilis. 



SARSAPARILLA. 

The name of Sarsaparilla is applied to the roots of Smilax 
officinalis, S. medica and other species of Smilax {Nat. Ord. 
Smilacese), twining prickly shrubs of Mexico, Guatemala and 
the warm countries of South America. The roots consist of 
numerous wrinkled, slender pieces, of the average thickness of 
a writing quill, several feet long, springing from a common 
head or rhizome, and are frequently found in the shops with por- 
tions of the stem attached. Several varieties are known : 1. 
Honduras sarsaparilla, the most common variety in the United 
States, comes in bundles two or three feet long, composed of 
several long, thin roots, folded lengthwise, of a dirty grayish 
or reddish-brown colour. 2. Jamaica sarsaparilla, which is 
probably derived also from Central America, comes in shorter 



SARSAPARILLA. 313 

bundles, and is known by the r,ed colour of the epidermis. 

3. Vera Ortiz sarsaparilla comes in large, loose bales, bound 
with cords or leather thongs, containing the roots folded on 
themselves, consisting of a head with numerous long radicals. 

4. Brazilian or Rio Negro sarsaparilla comes in cylindrical 
bundles, each of which is closely wrapped by a flexible stem, 
with fewer rootlets than the Honduras variety; it is distin- 
guished by the amylaceous character of its interior structure. 

5. Guatemala sarsaparilla resembles the Brazilian. 
Sarsaparilla roots are several feet in length, about the 

thickness of a goose-quill, cylindrical, more or less wrinkled 
longitudinally, and consist of a whitish-brown or pink cortical 
portion covered with a thin gray, brown or red epidermis, and 
inclosing a- layer of whitish ligneous fibre and a central pith. 
The cortical portion is more active than the interior portion ; 
the central medulla contains a good deal of starch. Sarsapa- 
rilla, in the dried state, is nearly inodorous, but its decoction 
has a strong smell. It has a mucilaginous, slightly bitter taste, 
and when chewed for some time produces a persistent acrid 
impression on the mouth ; this acridity of taste is the criterion 
of good sarsaparilla. Water and diluted alcohol extract its 
virtues. It contains an alkaloid called smilacine or paralline, 
a volatile oil, starch, mucilage, resin, extractive, etc. The 
Vera Cruz and Jamaica varieties contain the most smilacine, 
and are therefore the best for medical purposes. 

Effects and Uses. — The physiological effects of sarsaparilla, 
beyond a slight diaphoretic action, are not very obvious ; in 
large doses it occasionally produces nausea and vomiting. Its 
efficacy in eradicating various morbid symptoms is believed in 
by some, though denied by others ; and its mode of action, 
though obscure, is popularly attributed to a purifying influence 
on the blood through the function of the skin. It is employed 
in tertiary syphilis, particularly where the disease resists or is 
aggravated by the use of mercury ; also in chronic rheuma- 
tism, skin diseases, and cachectic conditions of the system 
generally. 

Administration. — Dose, of the powder, 5ss three or four 



314 MATERIA MEDICA — DIAPHORETICS. 

times a day — never used, however, in this form. The com- 
pound decoction is made by boiling sarsaparilla 10 parts, sas- 
safras, guaiacum wood and liquorice root each 2 parts, and 
mezereon 1 part, in 100 parts of water, then macerating, and, 
after straining, adding water enough to make the decoction 
measure 100 parts ; dose, f §iv-vi three times a day. The 
compound syrup (which contains also guaiacum wood, pale rose, 
senna, liquorice root and the oils of sassafras, anise and gaul- 
theria) is a favourite preparation ; corrosive sublimate should 
not be given w T ith it, as it is decomposed into calomel. Dose, 
foss three times a day. Of the fluid extract, the dose is f5ss. 
The compound fluid extract contains the ingredients of the 
compound decoction, except the guaiacum ; dose, f5j three or 
four times a day. • 



GUAIACI LIGNUM — GUAIACUM WOOD. 
GUAIACI RE SIN A — GUAIAC. 

Guaiacum Wood, or Lignum Vitaz, and Guaiac are products of 
Guaiacum officinale and G. sanctum (Nat, Ord. Zygophyllaceae), 
large evergreen trees of South America and the West Indies. 
The WOOD, which is remarkable for its hardness and density, is 
imported in logs or billets, covered with a thick gray bark ; the 
outer portion or sap-wood is of a pale-yellow colour, the inner 
of an olive-brown. The heart-wood is the officinal portion: it 
is usually kept in the shops in the state of shavings or raspings ; 
they are inodorous unless heated, and when chewed for some 
time they have a bitterish, pungent taste. Guaiacum wood 
yields its virtues to alcohol, and partially to water ; they depend 
on the guaiac contained in the wood. 

Guaiac is a peculiar resin, obtained from Guaiacum officinale 
by spontaneous exudation, by incision, by dry heat, or by de- 
coction of the comminuted wood. It comes in large, irregular, 
semi-transparent, brittle pieces, of varying size — externally 
of a deep green or olive colour, and internally red. It has a 
slight balsamic odour, which is rendered stronger by heat, and 



MEZEREON. 315 

though at first nearly tasteless, leaves a hot, acrid sensation in 
the mouth and throat. Water dissolves it partially, alcohol 
completely. It contains guaiaeonic and guaiaretio acids, guaiac 
beta-resin, gum, ash, guaiacic acid, colouring matter, etc. 
(Hadelich, quoted by Fluckiger and Hanbury). Most oxidizing 
agents, as nitric and chromic acids, etc., produce a blue, then 
green, and finally a brown colour with tincture of guaiacum. 

Effects and Uses.— Guaiacum wood and guaiac are stimu- 
lant diaphoretics, also increasing the secretion of bronchial 
mucus, and in large doses cathartic. They are principally 
used for their alterative virtues in chronic rheumatism, con- 
stitutional syphilis and skin diseases ; guaiac has been used as 
a laxative. Bartholow recommends strongly .5ss doses of the 
tincture every four hours in tonsillitis. They are considered 
also to possess emmenagogue properties, and are employed in 
amenorrhoea and dysmenorrhea. 

Administration. — Guaiacum wood is used only as an in- 
gredient in the compound decoction and syrup of sarsaparilla 
and in the compound pills of antimony. Dose of guaiac, gr. x 
to gr. xxx, in pill or emulsion, -sometimes combined with alka- 
lies. The tincture (20 parts in 100 of the tincture) and am- 
moniated tincture (20 parts to ar. sp. of ammonia q. s. to make 
100 parts) are much used in chronic rheumatism ; the former 
is given also in amenorrhoea ; dose, f 5j three or four times a 
day. They are decomposed by water, and should be admin- 
istered in mucilage, syrup or milk. 

MEZEREUM — MEZEREON. 

Mezereon is the bark of Daphne mezereum and other spe- 
cies of Daphne {Nat. Ord. Thymelacese), European shrubs 
which grow to the height of four or five feet. The root-bark 
is the part employed in Great Britain, but the bark of our 
shops, which is brought from Germany, is the stem-bark. It 
comes in strips from two to four feet long and an inch or less 
in breadth, folded in bundles or wrapped in the shape of balls. 
It has a thin, grayish or reddish-brown, wrinkled epidermis 



316 MATERIA MEDICA — DIAPHORETICS. 

and a tough, pliable, whitish inner bark. When fresh it has 
a faint, nauseous smell, but when dry it is nearly inodorous. 
Its taste is at first sweetish, afterwards highly acrid. It yields 
its virtues to water and alcohol, and contains a neutral crystal- 
line bitter glucoside called daphnin, and a resin to which it 
owes its acridity. 

Effects and Uses. — The topical action of mezereon is irritant 
and vesicant. When swallowed in large quantities it is highly 
acrid ; in medicinal doses it promotes the action of the secret- 
ing and exhaling organs, particularly the skin and kidneys. 
It is employed chiefly in conjunction with sarsaparilla (in the 
compound decoction, etc.) as an alterative diaphoretic in 
rheumatic, syphilitic and cutaneous affections. As a masti- 
catory, it has been chewed for the relief of paralysis of the 
muscles of deglutition. The fluid extract is the best prepara- 
tion for internal administration ; dose, 10 minims. An extract 
is also officinal ; the ointment is used as a stimulating applica- 
tion to blistered surfaces and indolent ulcers. 

MENISPERMUM. 

Menispermum is the rhizome and rootlets of Menispermum 
canadense, Yellow Parilla or Canada Moonseed (Wat. Ord. 
Menispermacese), a climbing plant of North America. The 
rhizome contains berberine, starch, etc. It is supposed to be 
a diaphoretic, diuretic, tonic and alterative, and to possess 
virtues similar to those of sarsaparilla, and it may be given in 
corresponding doses. According to the experiments of Ruth- 
erford, it is an intestinal, but not a hepatic, stimulant. There 
are no officinal preparations. 

CALENDULA — MARIGOLD. 

Calendula is the fresh flowering herb of Calendula 
officinalis, or Marigold (Nat. Ord. Composite), a European 
plant, cultivated in our gardens. It contains a volatile oil, a 
bitter principle, calendulin, etc. It is supposed to be a stim- 



STILLINGIA. 317 

ulant, alterative, diaphoretic, diuretic, vulnerary and resolvent. 
It formerly enjoyed a high reputation in the treatment of can- 
cerous affections, but now is not much used. It is said to be 
efficacious in certain forms of chronic vomiting, and externally, 
to promote resolution of ulcers, wounds and contusions. It 
may be given in doses of gr. viij to 5j. A tincture is officinal, 
of which the dose is f 5ss-j. It may be used externally, diluted 
with water 20 parts. 

SASSAFRAS. 

This is the bark of the root of Sassafras officinale (Nat. 
Ord. Lauraceae), an indigenous tree of middling size. The 
bark is found in the shops in small irregular pieces, of a cin- 
namon colour, sometimes invested with a brownish epidermis. 
It has a highly fragrant odour and a sweetish, aromatic taste. 
Its virtues are extracted by water and alcohol, and it contains 
a little tannic acid and a volatile oil (oleum sassafras). 

Effects and Uses. — Sassafras bark is a mild stimulant alter- 
ative diaphoretic, used chiefly in combination with sarsaparilla. 
Its principal virtues are probably aromatic. Dose of the oil, 
2 to 10 drops. (For Sassafras Pith, see Demulcents.) 

STILLINGIA. 

The root of Stillingia sylvatica (Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacese), 
commonly called Queen s Delight, a perennial plant, growing 
to the height of two feet in our south Atlantic States, is highly 
esteemed by southern physicians as an alterative diaphoretic 
in secondary syphilis, scrofula, cutaneous affections and chronic 
rheumatism. Dose of the powder, 15 to 30 grains. The fluid 
extract is officinal, and may be given in the dose of f5ss. A 
decoction and tincture are extemporaneously prepared. 



318 MATERIA MEDICA — DIURETICS. 



ORDER IV. — DIURETICS. 



Diuretics (from dia, thoroughly, and ovpeu, I make water) are 
medicines which excite the secretion of urine. The flow of 
urine may be promoted indirectly by increasing the quantity 
of fluid taken into the stomach, or by the removal of causes 
which check its secretion, or by mental emotion, a cool tem- 
perature, etc. It is promoted directly by the use of medicinal 
agents which specifically affect the kidneys ; they are termed 
diuretics. A large proportion of diuretic medicines are found 
among the agents which influence other secretions, particularly 
diaphoretics. The functions of transpiration and urination are 
to some extent vicarious, and the same articles will prove dia- 
phoretic or diuretic, as their action may be directed to the skin 
or kidneys. External warmth and warm drinks determine the 
action of such medicines to the skin ; and, on the other hand, 
if the skin be kept cool, and cool diluents freely administered, 
the secretion from the kidneys is promoted. 

Blennorrhetics, or medicines which have a special action on 
the mucous membranes, exert also a diuretic influence — prob- 
ably the result of the stimulating impression which they make 
on the mucous membrane of the urinary passages. When the 
action of the kidneys is obstructed by disease of the heart, 
sedatives prove diuretic, by their tranquillizing influence on the 
action of the heart. In cases of obstruction of the portal sys- 
tem, mercurials increase the efficacy of the diuretics proper ; 
and also cathartics, by stimulating the flow of bile and the 
pancreatic juice. 

The principal therapeutic employment of diuretics is to pro- 
mote the absorption of dropsical effusions. They are also use- 
ful in nephritic disorders attended with obstructed secretion ; 
to wash out calculi from the pelvis of the kidneys, ureters and 
bladder ; in gravel, with the view of rendering the urine more 
dilute ; and they may be resorted to as evacuants, to reduce 
inflammation. 

As diuretics act by becoming absorbed, they should be 



DIURETICS. 319 

administered in a very diluted state to prevent a cathartic 
effect. 

The following groups of medicines, noticed under other 
heads, are employed also as diuretics : 

1. The Saline and Ethereal Refrigerants (see p. 235). 

2. The Alkaline Carbonates (see Antacids)', and the Alka- 
line Salts which contain a vegetable acid., as the acetates, 
citrates and tartrates. The acid potassium tartrate, or cream 
of tartar (see p. 286), is a very active diuretic. 

Potassii Acetas [Potassium Acetate). This salt (KC 2 H 3 2 ), 
formerly termed sal diuretieus from its decided diuretic 
action, is made by saturating acetic acid with potassium 
bicarbonate. It occurs, when pure, as a white, foliaceous, 
satiny mass, of a warm pungent taste, very deliquescent, 
and wholly soluble in water and alcohol. The physiological 
effects of the potassium compounds have already been fully 
considered (see p. 233). In small doses it is diuretic, and 
in larger doses gently cathartic. It is a good deal employed 
as a diuretic in dropsies, as an antacid in acute rheuma- 
tism, as a preventative of the formation of uric acid calculi, 
and it has also been found useful as an alterative in cutaneous 
affections. As is the case with all the alkaline salts contain- 
ing vegetable acids, the acid of this salt is decomposed in the 
system into carbonic acid. Although increasing the flow of 
urine, potassium acetate diminishes the amount both of uric 
acid and of urea in the secretion. Hence it is valuable in 
gout, and, like colchicum, it may perhaps check the actual for- 
mation of uric acid in the system. Dose, 3j to 5j three or 
four times a day. 

Sodii Acetas [Sodium Acetate) is prepared from crude 
pyroligneous acid, which is saturated with cream of lime, and 
the solution of calcium acetate thus formed is decomposed 
by sodium sulphate ; repeated solution and crystallization, 
with fusion, furnish a pure salt in the form of white or colour- 
less striated prisms (NaC 2 H 3 2 ,3H 2 0), which effloresce in dry 
air, are wholly soluble in water, tolerably soluble in alcohol, 
and have a sharp, bitterish, not disagreeable taste. Its effects 



320 MATERIA MEDICA — DIURETICS. 

and uses are analogous to those of potassium acetate, over 
which it has the advantage of not being deliquescent. Dose, 
■3i "to Si. 

3. Sedatives (seep. 217); and Digitalis (see p. 249), which 
is very much employed in cardiac dropsies in combination with 
squill. 

4. Blennorrhetics (see p. 330), particularly the oleoresins. 

5. Most of the Stimulating Diaphoretics. 

SPECIAL DIURETICS. 
SCILLA — SQUILL. 

Squill is the bulb of Urginea scilla (Nat. Ord. LiliaCeae), a 
perennial plant which grows on the shores of the Mediterra- 
nean. It has fibrous roots attached to a roundish-ovate bulb, 
from which both the leaves and flower-stem spring directly, the 
latter appearing first ; the leaves are broad-lanceolate, and 
from twelve to eighteen inches long ; the stem is about two feet 
high, and bears pale yellowish-green flowers. 

The fresh bulb is pyriform, of the size of the fist to that of a 
child's head, and consists of thick, fleshy, concentric scales, 
attenuated at their edges, and attached to a rudimentary stem ; 
the outer scales are very thin and papery. Two kinds of squill 
bulbs are met with, the white and the red, which differ only in 
the colour of their scales, and are identical in medicinal virtues. 
Both abound in a viscid, acrid juice, which is very much dimin- 
ished by drying, with little loss of medicinal power. For im- 
portation, squill is usually sliced and dried, and is found in the 
shops in white or yellowish-white pieces, which when dry are 
brittle, but when moist, flexible. They absorb moisture readily, 
and should be kept in well-stoppered bottles. They have a 
feeble odour, a bitter, nauseous, acrid taste, and yield their 
virtues to water, alcohol and vinegar. The active principles 
found in squill are scillipicrin, scillitoxin and scillin. The first 
two are said to act on the heart, and the last to produce 
numbness and vomiting (Merck, quoted by Maisch). 

Physiological Effects. — In small doses, squill promotes secre- 



SQUILL. 321 

tion from the mucous membranes and the kidneys — its diuretic 
effect being much the most marked and constant. Husemann 
states that the diuretic effects of squill are due to its influence 
on the blood pressure, which it increases ; but clinical experi- 
ence teaches that it stimulates the kidneys. In larger doses 
it excites nausea, vomiting and occasionally purging; and in 
excessive doses it acts as an acro-narcotic poison, gr. xxiv 
having proved fatal. The symptoms are violent vomiting and 
purging, abdominal pains, bloody or suppressed urine, reduc- 
tion of the pulse, with collapse, or death may be preceded by 
convulsions. After evacuation of the stomach, opiates and 
demulcents are to be administered, and, if syncope or collapse 
occur, alcoholic stimuli. 

Medicinal Uses. — Squill is employed principally in the 
treatment of dropsy; it should not be used, however, in cases 
complicated with degeneration of the kidneys or inflammation 
of the bladder. Digitalis is much prescribed in combination 
with squill in the treatment of cardiac dropsies, and calomel is 
often added with a view to its action on the absorbents. As a 
blennorrhetic expectorant, squill is an excellent remedy in 
chronic and subacute bronchial affections ; it is, however, im- 
proper in the early stages of inflammatory cases. As an 
emetic, squill is too dangerous for general use ; but it forms an 
ingredient in some emetic preparations administered in croup. 

Administration. — Dose, as a diuretic or expectorant, gr. j, 
repeated and gradually increased till nausea supervenes. Gr. 
*vj to gr. xij will vomit. Of the vinegar (acetum scilla?), the 
dose is tt[xxx to foij ; of the fluid extract, TT|J ; of the syrup, 
f 5j ; of the compound syrup, known as hive syrup (which is 
prepared by percolation, by first making a solution of senega 
and squill in diluted alcohol and water, converting it into a 
syrup, and dissolving it in tartar emetic, one grain of which is 
contained in every ounce of the syrup), 10 drops to f 5j, accord- 
ing to the age ; of the tincture, 20 to 40 drops. 
21 



322 MATERIA MEDICA — DIURETICS. 

COLCHICUM. 
Colchici Radix, Colchicum Root; Colchici Semen, Colchicum Seed. 

Colchicum autumn ale, or Meadow-Saffron {Nat. Ord. Melan- 
thaceae), is a small biennial, bulbous plant, which grows wild, 
in moist meadows, in England and other temperate parts of 
Europe. The bulb, or corm as it is botanicallj termed, appears 
in midsummer as the lateral offset from the corm of the pre- 
ceding year, and sends up the flower-stem in the autumn — the 
leaves and fruit following in the succeeding spring. The leaves 
are broadly lanceolate, about five inches long ; the flowers, of 
a lilac or light-purple colour ; and the fruit, oblong, elliptical 
and three-celled. 

The corms and seeds are the portions used medicinally. 
The corms are gathered in July, just before the sprouting of 
the flower from the young corm. They are somewhat like 
tulip-bulbs in appearance, but solid, and not composed of 
scales. They are covered by an external brown membrane 
and an inner reddish-yellow one, and are an inch and a half to 
two and a half inches in length, with a longitudinal groove. 
Internally they are white, fleshy and solid, and contain an 
acrid, bitter milky juice. As found in the shops they are in 
the dried state, sometimes whole, but usually cut into trans- 
verse slices, about an eighth of an inch thick, with a notch on 
one side, and deprived of the outer brown membrane. They 
have a hircine odour and a bitter, hot and acrid taste. The 
seeds are brown, about the size of black-mustard seeds, in- ' 
odorous, and have a bitter, acrid taste ; they are less apt to be 
injured by drying than the corms. 

Colchicum corms and seeds yield their virtues to vinegar 
and alcohol ; they both contain an alkaloid, soluble in water, 
readily so in alcohol, but insoluble in ether, termed colchicia 
or colchicine (C 17 H 23 N0 6 ), on which the medicinal activity de- 
pends. Colchicia, in the saline form, is converted into another 
isomeric principle, termed colchicein, and resins (colchicoresin 
and beta-colchicoresin), but not probably with loss of medicinal 
effect. Colchicia makes with concentrated nitric acid a violet 



COLCHICUM. 323 

solution, becoming yellow by dilution with water ; with concen- 
trated sulphuric acid it produces an intensely yellow colour. 

Physiological Effects. — Colchicum is a local irritant. Taken 
internally, in small doses, it stimulates the secretions generally ; 
in larger doses it produces nausea, vomiting and purging, and 
commonly a reduction of the frequency of the pulse ; in ex- 
cessive doses it is an acro-narcotic poison, producing death by 
a sedative action on the heart, the cerebral functions being 
usually unaffected. The amount of urea and uric acid ex- 
creted in the urine is much increased after the administration 
of colchicum. It increases the secretion of bile, which at the 
same time is rendered very watery. Tannic acid is a partial 
antidote; opiates, demulcents and stimulants are to be given. 
Although placed among the diuretics, colchicum does not evince 
a more decided action on the kidneys than on other secretions, 
as those of the skin, liver and mucous membranes. 

Medicinal Uses. — Colchicum has long enjoyed a high reputa- 
tion in the treatment of gout ; and, although its modus medendi 
is obscure, it is universally admitted to possess a more decided 
control over the disease than any other remedy. It is usually 
administered in repeated doses till an effect is produced on the 
bowels, though purging does not promote its curative effect. 
Epsom salts and magnesia are often combined with it, as in 
the celebrated Scudamores draught (magnesia, gr. xv to xx ; 
magnesium sulphate, 5j to 5ij ; wine of colchicum seed, f 5j 
to f3ij 5 in any pleasant vehicle). An excellent combination 
in the treatment of gout is colchicum (ivine of the seed, f oi), 
with potassium iodide (3ij), dissolved in cinnamon water 
(f §viij) ; dose, f §ss three times a day until purgation is pro- 
duced. Quinine and digitalis are also often given advantage- 
ously, with colchicum, in gout.* When it is desired to act on 
the kidneys and skin rather than the bowels, opiates are some- 
times added. In rheumatism it is also employed, but it has 
little control over this disease. Dr. Woodbury, however, has 

* Lartigue's celebrated gout-pills are : acetic extract of colchicum root, 
2 grains ; extract of digitalis, 1 grain ; compound extract of colocynth, 20 
grains, to be mixed and divided into five pills — one to be taken at night. 



824 MATERIA MEDICA — DIURETICS. 

recently reported cases where hypodermic injections of XY\y of 
a solution of colchicine ( T \ per cent.) gave speedy and perma- 
nent relief in acute rheumatism, after the salicylates had failed 
(Phila. Med. Times, Dec. 2, 1882). It has been occasionally 
resorted to as a diuretic in dropsy, as a sedative in febrile and 
inflammatory diseases, as an anthelmintic, as an expectorant, 
and in some nervous affections. 

Administration. — Dose of the corm or seeds, in powder, gr. 
ij to gr. viij ; the seeds are to be preferred. The liquid prepa- 
rations, which are more generally used than the powder, are : 
the wine of the root (yinum colchici radicis), TT|x to f5ss; 
wine of the seed (vinum colchici seminis), dose, f 5ss-j ; tincture 
of the seed, dose, f3ss to f oi- An extract of the root (acetic) 
is also employed — dose, gr. i-ij; and a fluid extract of the seed 
and also of the root — doses, 4 to 12 drops. The alkaloid col- 
chicine (not officinal) has been recommended as the best form 
of administration in doses of gr. ^ in pill or somewhat less by 
hypodermic injections. 

ERIGERON. 

Three varieties of Erigeron are used, but none are officinal : 
E. canadense, or Canada Fleabane, E. heterophyllum, or Va- 
rious-leaved Fleabane, and E. Philadelphicum, or Philadelphia 
Fleabane (Nat. Ord. Composite). They are herbaceous indi- 
genous plants, two or three feet high, with ovate or lanceolate 
toothed leaves and white, blue or purple flowers. The 
haves and tops are used. Canada erigeron, which is found 
in the northern or middle States, has an agreeable odour and 
a bitter, acrid, somewhat astringent taste. It contains bitter 
extractive, tannic and gallic acids and volatile oil, and is diu- 
retic, tonic and astringent. The oil of erigeron (oleum 
erigerontis), distilled from the fresh flowering herb of E. cana- 
dense, is officinal. It possesses haemostatic properties, and 
has been used in hemorrhagic dysentery and uterine hemor- 
rhage — dose, 5 to 10 drops ; a fluid extract of Canada erigeron 
(not officinal) may be given in the dose of f5i-iv. Various- 



INDIAN HEMP. 



325 



leaved and Philadelphia Fleabane, popularly known as scab- 
ious, common plants all over the United States, have an 
aromatic odour and a slightly bitterish taste. Their most 
striking medicinal action is diuretic, and they have long been 
favourite remedies in dropsical and nephritic affections. An 
infusion or decoction to the amount of a pint (containing a 
troyounce of the herb) may be taken daily. 



APOCYNUM — INDIAN HEMP. 
Fig. 25. 




Apocynum cannabinum is an indigenous herbaceous plant 
(Nat. Ord. Apocynaceae), growing to the height of two or three 
feet, with oblong-ovate leaves and small greenish, campanulate 



326 MATERIA MEDICA — DIURETICS. 

flowers. The root is the officinal portion ; it is of a yellowish- 
brown colour when young, and of a dark-chestnut when old, 
has a strong odour and a nauseous, acrid, bitter taste. The 
fresh root, when wounded, pours out a milky juice, w T hence 
the plant is sometimes termed milk-weed. It yields its virtues 
to water and alcohol, and contains gallic and tannic acids, gum, 
resin, a bitter principle, etc. Although the entire root is 
officinal, the bark of the root is probably alone active. A. an- 
drosaemifolium, or Dogsbane, is possessed of much the same 
properties as A. cannabinum. 

Effects and Uses. — Indian Hemp (which is not to be con- 
founded with Cannabis Indica, p. 88) is diuretic, diaphoretic, 
sedative, and, in continued doses, emeto-cathartic. It is chiefly 
employed in the treatment of dropsy, in which its action is often 
powerfully efficacious. It should be given in amounts just 
sufficient to produce diuresis, as a cathartic effect it is not desira- 
ble. The best form of exhibition is infusion (tgss to boiling 
water Oj, or the same amount may be dissolved in gin Oj) ; dose, 
f 5ij-iv three or four times a day. 

TARAXACUM — DANDELION. 

Fig. 26.. 




Taraxacum dens-leonis, or Dandelion (Nat. Ord. Composite), 
is a small herbaceous, perennial plant, common to most parts 
of the world, and found abundantly throughout the United 
States. It has a fusiform root, which sends up numerous long 



COUCHGRASS. 327 

sinuated, bright-green leaves, and flower-stems about six inche3 
high, bearing golden-yellow flowers. The root is the officinal 
portion, and should be gathered in the autumn. In the fresh 
state it is several inches long, branched, fleshy, of a light- 
brown colour externally, whitish within, and abounds in a milky 
juice; the fresh root is preferable for use. When dried it is 
shrunken, wrinkled and brittle. It is without smell, but has a 
bitter taste. Boiling water extracts its virtues, which probably 
depend on a peculiar bitter crystallizable principle termed ta- 
raxacine, soluble in water and alcohol. It also contains tarax- 
acerin, resin, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — Taraxacum is diuretic and slightly ape- 
rient, with some tonic action, and a slight determination to the 
liver. It is a valuable remedy in hepatic dropsies, and is also 
employed in dyspepsia accompanied by derangement of the 
liver. It may be given in the form of infusion (oij to boiling 
water Oj — not officinal) — dose f oij three times a day ; extract 
(an inspissated juice, which should not be kept above a year) — 
dose, 9j to 5j three times a day ; fluid extract — dose, f 3i-ij 
three times a day. 

TRITICUM — COUCHGRASS. 

The rhizome of Triticum repens or Couchgrass (Nat. Ord. 
Graminacese), a perennial weed, native of Europe and North 
America, growing in fields and in waste.places, with a long stiff", 
pale-yellow rhizome, which should be gathered in the spring, 
and is found in the shops, freed from the rootlets, cut into short 
lengths and dried, without odour, but having a slightly sweetish 
taste (Fluckiger and Hanbury), contains triticin, which resem- 
bles inulin and several sugars, and appears to be a feeble diu- 
retic. It is a remedy of some value in catarrh of the bladder 
attended with much mucous discharge (Whitla), and may be 
used to allay irritation of the urinary passages. The fluid ex- 
tract is officinal, and may be given in doses of f5ss-j. 



328 MATERIA MEDICA — DIURETICS. 

JUNIPERUS — JUNIPER. 

. The fruit or berries of Juniperus communis {Nat. Ord. 
Coniferse), an evergreen European shrub, naturalized in the 
United States, are used as adjuvants to the more active diuret- 
ics, and in large doses produce strangury and bloody urine, and 
prove emmenagogue. When dried they are about the size of 
a pea, of a blackish-purple colour and a sweetish, terebinthin- 
ate, aromatic taste ; they are given in infusion (tgj to boiling 
water Oj). Their virtues depend on a volatile oil (oleum ju- 
niperi) (C 10 H 16 ), the dose of which is from 5 to 15 drops 
two or three times a day. The corn-pound spirit (containing also 
the oils of caraway and fennel, dissolved in alcohol and water) 
is a pleasant addition to stimulating diuretic and blennorrhetic 
combinations, and a good stomachic and carminative ; dose, 
f5i-ij. The spirit is made by dissolving 3 parts of the oil in 
97 parts of alcohol; dose, f3i-ij. 

SCOPARIUS — BROOM. 

Sarothamus scoparius, or Broom (Nat. Ord. Leguminosae), is 
a common European shrub, cultivated in the United States, 
from three to five feet high, with numerous bright-yellow 
flowers. The tops of the branches are the officinal portion, 
but the seeds are also used. The twigs are pentangular (with 
small oblong, downy leaves), of a bright-green colour, a strong, 
peculiar odour when bruised, and a bitter, nauseous taste. 
Two principles are found in broom-tops — scoparin (C 21 H 22 O 10 ), 
a neutral, crystallizable body, supposed to be the diuretic con- 
stituent, and a volatile alkaloid, sparteia (C 15 H 26 N 2 ), said to be 
narcotic ; it also contains volatile oil, tannin, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — Broom is an efficient diuretic, in large 
doses producing free purging. It is a valuable and reliable 
remedy in dropsy, best given in decoction, half an ounce to a 
pint of water, boiled down to half a pint, of which an ounce 
may be given every hour or two till the bowels are disturbed. 
A fluid extract (not officinal) is used in doses of f5$s-i. 



CANTHARIDES. 329 

CANTHARIS — CANTHARIDES. 

The properties, etc., of cantharides will be noted fully under 
the head of Irritants (subdivision JEpispastics). Taken inter- 
nally, they sometimes prove diuretic, and generally excite irri- 
tation of the genito-urinary passages, as strangury, priapism, 
etc. ; and in overdoses act as an acro-narcotic poison. They 
are employed in atonic dropsies, incontinence of urine, amen- 
orrhoea, seminal weakness, impotence, etc. Dose, gr. i-ij 
twice a day, in pill. They are most commonly administered 
in tincture; dose, gtt. x or more three or four times a day 
till strangury supervenes. 

The following medicines, though less frequently resorted to 
than the foregoing, possess very decided diuretic properties, 
and may be employed with advantage in the treatment of drop- 
sical and nephritic affections : 

The rhizome and rootlets of Hydrastis canadensis, or 
Yellow Root {Nat. Ord. Ranunculacese), a small indigenous 
plant, with yellow, fugacious flowers and a red fruit resembling 
raspberries, contain the alkaloids berberina (previously noticed) 
and hydrastia (C 22 H 23 N0 6 ), also xanthopuccina, starch, etc. 
It is contorted, rugose, of a bright-yellow colour, and has a 
strong, somewhat narcotic odour and a bitter taste. It is 
tonic as well as diuretic, and is a very efficacious diuretic in 
promoting the discharge of calculi from the kidneys. Accord- 
ing to Rutherford, it is a hepatic stimulant of considerable 
power, and a feeble intestinal stimulant. The fluid extract may 
be given in doses of f3ij-jv; or the tincture, dose Tt|x-f5j. 

The root of Petroselinum sativum, or Parsley (Nat. 
Ord. Umbelliferse), a European plant, cultivated in our vege- 
table gardens for its leaves. Parsley contains a peculiar prin- 
ciple termed apiol, or parsley camphor, which separates from 
the oil, during distillation, in long white, efflorescent needles, 
having a faint smell of parsley, insoluble in water, but soluble 
in alcohol and ether. It has been used in amenorrhoea of func- 
tional origin, especially when due to anaemia, and in neuralgic 



330 MATERIA MEDICA — BLENNORRHEAS. 

dysmenorrhoea, in the dose of 4 grains morning and evening. 
It is not officinal. 



ORDER V. — BLENNORRHETICS. 

Blennorrhetics (from (3Xewa, mucus, and pew, I flow) are 
medicines which promote the secretion of the mucous mem- 
branes. They are employed therapeutically in morbid con- 
ditions of those membranes, with a view to the restoration of 
healthy action in cases of deficient, abnormal or excessive 
secretion. 

When administered with the object of stimulating the secre- 
tion of mucus from the bronchial or laryngeal membrane, this 
class of agents is termed expectorants. They are prescribed 
in the subacute and chronic forms of bronchitis and laryngitis, 
and in the declining stages of the acute forms of those affec- 
tions and pneumonia. In the early or inflammatory stages of 
acute bronchitis and laryngitis the stimulating expectorants 
are inadmissible until expectoration has been established. 

The blennorrhetics are less employed in gastro-enteric affec- 
tions than in those of other mucous membranes, owing to their 
tendency to produce catharsis. Several of the oleoresins are, 
however, used with advantage in certain forms of chronic 
diarrhoea, and the oil of turpentine is highly esteemed in the 
treatment of the diarrhoea of typhoid fever. 

The oleoresinous articles of this group are extensively em- 
ployed in diseases of the urino-genital mucous membranes, — 
gonorrhoea, gleet, leucorrhoea, incontinence of urine, cysti- 
tis, etc. 

The following are the articles chiefly resorted to for their 
influence on the mucous membranes : 

SENEGA. 

Polygala senega, or Senega Snakeroot [Nat. Ord. Polyga- 
laceae), is a small indigenous plant, found in all parts of the 
United States, but most abundantly in the South and West. 



SENEGA. 



331 



It has a perennial branching root, several erect annual stems 
about a foot in height, alternate lanceolate leaves, and small 
whitish flowers arranged in a terminal spike. The root is the 
officinal portion. It occurs in the shops in twisted pieces, vary- 
ing in thickness from the size of a quill to that of the little 
finger, attached to a knotty head, and marked with a ridge 
along their whole length and numerous annular protuberances. 
The cortical portion is hard, resinous, of a yellowish-brown 
colour, and contains the active qualities of the root. The cen- 
tral ligneous portion is white and inert. The odour of senega 

Fijr. 27. 




is peculiar and disagreeable, but faint in the dried root ; the 
taste is at first mucilaginous and sweetish, but afterwards be- 
comes acrid and very irritating. 

The virtues of senega are extracted by cold and hot water 
and alcohol. It contains a 'polygalic acid, on which its ac- 
tivity chiefly depends ; this resembles saponin, a glucoside 
found in soapwort and other plants. 

Effects and Uses. — Senega, in small doses, is an active ex- 
citant of the mucous membranes and secretions generally, and 



332 MATERIA MEDICA — BLENNORRHETICS. 

in large doses proves emetic and cathartic. It is prescribed 
chiefly as a stimulating expectorant in chronic and subacute 
bronchial affections, and in the latter stages of acute bronchitis, 
pneumonia, etc. As an ingredient in the compound syrup of 
squills it is much employed in the treatment of croup, but, 
except in some such combination with tartar emetic or other 
emetic nauseant, it is scarcely admissible in the early stages of 
this disease. Senega is thought also to possess emmenagogue 
properties, and is highly extolled by many practitioners in the 
treatment of amenorrhoea. It has been occasionally used as a 
diuretic in dropsies, and in emeto-cathartic doses has been 
found useful in rheumatism. 

Administration. — Dose, in powder, gr. x to 3j ; but the 
abstract is to be preferred, of which gr. j is equal to grs. ij of 
the powder. The fluid extract may be given in the dose of 
TT[x-xx ; and a syrup is also used, in the dose of f 5i-ij- 



QUILLAIA. 

Quillaia, or Soap-bark, is the bark of the Quillaia sapon- 
aria [Nat. Ord. Rosacea), a tree of South America. The bark 
is found in the shops in large flat pieces, brownish-white, with 
small patches of brownish cork on the outer surface, but other- 
wise smooth ; without smell, but having a very acrid taste ; 
the powder is sternutatory (Maisch). It contains saponin 
(C 32 H 54 12 ), which in watery infusion foams like soap, and is 
believed to be identical with polygaiic acid (senegin). Quillaia 
is supposed to be blennorrhetic and diuretic, and may be given 
in various forms of dropsy and in chronic bronchitis. A fluid 
extract mixed with glycerin forms an admirable local applica- 
tion to some cases of acne (Pifford). Dose, gr. xv-xxx in in- 
fusion three times a day. 

ALLIUM — GARLIC. 

Allium sativum (Nat. Ord. Liliacese) is a small perennial, 
bulbous plant, which grows wild in the south of Europe, and 



TURPENTINE. 333 

is cultivated in all parts of the world. The bulb is the portion 
used. As found in the shops, it is somewhat spherical in form, 
about an inch in diameter, with a portion of the stem attached, 
covered with a white, membranous envelope, and consists of five 
or six smaller bulbs, of a curved, oblong shape, called cloves 
of garlic. They have a strong irritating, characteristic odour 
and a bitter, acrid taste. Water, alcohol and vinegar extract 
their virtues, which depend on an essential oil, which is of a 
yellow colour, very volatile and irritating ; it consists of oxide 
and sulphides of a peculiar radical termed allyl (C 3 H 5 ). 

Effects and Uses. — Garlic is a local irritant and rubefacient, 
and, taken internally, quickens the circulation and stimulates 
the secretions generally. It is a good deal employed as an 
expectorant in chronic and subacute catarrhal affections, par- 
ticularly in infantile cases, and occasionally as a stomachic in 
flatulence, and as a diuretic in atonic dropsies. Externally it 
is used as a revulsive rubefacient to the feet, as a resolvent of 
indolent tumours, and as a liniment in infantile convulsions. 

Administration. — A clove may be swallowed entire, or cut 
into small pieces. Dose of the fresh bulbs, 5i-ij, in pill ; of 
the juice, f 5ss, mixed with sugar ; of the syrup (the only 
officinal preparation), f5j, for children. 



SCILLA — SQUILL. 

Squill, already noticed among diuretics, is one of the most 
powerful and valuable stimulating expectorants in the Materia 
Medica. (For properties, doses, preparations, etc., see p. 320.)* 

TEREBINTHINA — TURPENTINE. 

The term turpentine is applied to liquid or concrete vegetable 
juices, consisting of resin combined with a peculiar essential 
oil, called oil of turpentine. Two kinds of turpentine are recog- 
nized by the U. S. Pharmacopoeia : 1. The common American 
white turpentine, which is procured chiefly from Pinus austra- 
lis (Nat. Ord. Conifers), a large indigenous evergreen tree of 



331 MATERIA MEDICA — BLENNORRHETICS. 

our southern States, where it is called Long-leaved Pine, 
Yellow Pine and Pitch Pine, and in part also from Pinus 
tseda, found in Virginia, and other species of Pinus. 2. Can- 
ada turpentine (Terebinthina canadensis), kept in the shops 
under the name of Canada balsam or balsam of fir, the prod- 
uct of Abies balsamea, the American Silver Fir or Balm of 
Gilead Tree (Nat. Ord. Coniferge), a handsome tree about forty 
feet in height, inhabiting the northern portions of North 
America. Many other varieties of turpentine are known in 
commerce, as Bordeaux turpentine, Venice turpentine, Chian 
turpentine, etc. 

White turpentine comes from North Carolina and other 
southern States, and is collected from excavations made in the 
trunks of the trees, into which the turpentine runs in the mild 
weather. It is yellowish-white and somewhat translucent, 
semi-fluid in summer, firm and hard in winter, but becoming 
permanently hard by exposure to the air, and has a peculiar 
aromatic odour and a warm, pungent, bitterish taste. Canada 
turpentine comes from Canada and Maine. It is procured by 
breaking the vesicles which are found between the bark and 
wood of the trees and collecting the liquid contents in a bottle. 
When fresh it has the consistence of honey, but gradually 
solidifies by age. It is yellow, transparent, tenacious, of a 
peculiar pleasant, terebinthinate odour and a slightly bitter, 
acrid taste. 

Chemical Constituents. — The turpentines yield, by distilla- 
tion, a volatile oil, known as oil of turpentine, and leave a 
residue consisting exclusively of resin. Both the oil and resin 
are officinal. The turpentines are inflammable, nearly insolu- 
ble in water, but almost wholly soluble in alcohol and ether. 

Physiological Effects. — The local operation of the terebinth- 
inates is irritant. When applied to the skin they produce a 
rubefacient effect, and when swallowed in large doses, promote 
the peristaltic motion of the intestines. Taken internally, in 
small doses, they are absorbed, and prove excitant to the vas- 
cular system and the secretions generally, especially the mucous 
membranes; they communicate a violet odour to the urine. 



TURPENTINE. 335 

In large doses they cause pain in the loins, strangury and 
bloody urine. The activity of the terebinthinates depends on 
their volatile oil {vide p. 209). 

Medicinal Uses. — Turpentine is employed chiefly in diseases 
of the various mucous membranes, as gonorrhoea, gleet, leucor- 
rhoea, cystorrhoea, chronic bronchitis and chronic mucous diar- 
rhoea. It is also used in rheumatic complaints, and in iritis 
and sclerotitis ; and, in cathartic doses, in cases of ascarides, 
constipation and colic. 

Administration. — Dose, as a blennorrhetic, 3j to 5j, in pill, 
emulsion or electuary ; as an anthelmintic or cathartic, half a 
troyounce to an ounce, in emulsion. The white turpentine is 
generally used in this country. 

Oleum Terebinthlm (Oil of Turpentine) (C 10 H l6 ), com- 
monly called spirit of turpentine, is the active principle of 
turpentine, obtained by distillation. It is a limpid, colourless, 
volatile and inflammable liquid, of a strong, penetrating, pecul- 
iar odour and a hot, pungent, bitterish taste; very slightly 
soluble in water, less soluble in alcohol than the volatile oils 
generally, and wholly soluble in ether ; exposed to the air it 
absorbs oxygen, with the formation of resin. This oil has been 
already noticed under the head of aromatic stimulants (p. 208). 
Its effects have been already considered (p. 209), and its me- 
dicinal uses are the same as those of turpentine, for which it 
is usually substituted in practice. Locally it acts as a rube- 
facient. When swallowed in large doses, as f 5i-ij, it commonly 
passes off by the bowels ; and, taken in small doses, it is ab- 
sorbed, and stimulates the circulation and the secretions of the 
mucous membranes, kidneys and skin. It often produces 
strangury and considerable irritation of the urinary-genital 
passages. Poisonous ■ effects from the oil of turpentine are 
rare, as it generally passes off by the bowels ; it may, however, 
produce severe vomiting and purging, bloody or. suppressed 
urine, intense irritation of the urino-genital organs, uncon- 
sciousness, with dilated pupils, and even death. In large doses 
it is employed as an anthelmintic and cathartic, and is much 



o36 MATERIA MEDICA — BLENNORRHETICS. 

used as a clyster for the relief of tympanites. In small doses 
it is much prescribed in chronic discharges and hemorrhages 
from the various mucous membranes ; in the latter stages of 
typhoid fever as a combined stimulant and blennorrhetic ; as a 
diaphoretic in rheumatism and neuralgia ; in infantile diabetes, 
nephritic disorders, dropsy, etc. As a rubefacient, it is a val- 
uable counter-irritant in numerous diseases ; turpentine stupes 
are highly efficacious in catarrhal affections. Dose, gtt. v-xxx, 
repeated, as a blennorrhetic stimulant; fgss-fSj, as & cathartic 
enema or anthelmintic, in emulsion. Linimentum terebinthinm 
(oil of turpentine 35 parts, melted with resin cerate 65 parts) 
is used as an application to burns and scalds. 

Pix Liquida [Tar) is an impure turpentine, procured, by 
burning, from the wood of Pinus palustris and other species 
of Pinus. It is a brownish-black, viscid, semi-liquid substance, 
of a peculiar empyreumatic odour and a bitterish, resinous, 
somewhat acid taste ; soluble in alcohol, ether and the volatile 
and fixed oils. It consists of resin united with acetic acid, 
oil of turpentine and various volatile empyreumatic products. 
By distillation it yields pi/roligneous acid and oil of tar, the 
residuum being pitch. 

The oil of tar contains, besides oil of turpentine, creasote 
(see Antiseptics) and other principles. 

Effects and Uses. — Tar resembles the turpentines in its 
effects, and is employed in chronic catarrhal affections and 
other diseases of the mucous membranes. Its vapour has been 
employed in bronchitis ; and externally it is an excellent 
application in tinea capitis, psoriasis and other cutaneous 
affections. Dose, 5ss to 5j several times a day, in pill or 
electuary. 

The syrup contains six per cent, of tar, and is a good prep- 
aration. The ointment (unguentum picis liquids) is made by 
mixing equal parts of tar and melted suet. 

Resina (Resin), commonly called rosin, is the residue after 
the distillation of the oil from turpentine. It is a yellowish- 
brown, semi-transparent, solid, brittle substance, with a slight 
terefeinthinate odour and taste — insoluble in water, soluble in 



COPAIBA. 337 

ether, alcohol, and the essential oils, readily uniting by fusion 
with wax and the fixed oils, and forming soluble soaps with 
alkalies. When agitated with water, in a state of fusion, it 
becomes opaque and white. It is not used internally, but is 
extensively employed in the formation of plasters and ointments, 
to which it communicates great adhesiveness and slightly stim- 
ulant properties. 

Ceratum resince (resin cerate), commonly called basilicon 
ointment, is made by melting resin (35 parts), lard (50 parts) 
and yellow wax (15 parts) together ; it is an excellent mild 
stimulant application to burns, blistered surfaces, etc. Com- 
pound resin cerate (not officinal) may be made by melting 12 
troyounces of resin, suet and yellow wax, each, with 6 troy- 
ounces of turpentine and 7 troyounces of flaxseed oil — a 
good stimulant cerate, very popular under the name of Desh- 
hrs Salve. Emplastrum resince (resin plaster), made by 
melting 1-i parts of resin with 80 parts of lead plaster and o* 
parts of yellow wax, is the well-known adhesive plaster, used to 
retain the edges of wounds in contact, to produce extension in 
the treatment of fractures, to protect excoriated surfaces, to 
promote absorption, etc. 

COPAIBA. 

Copaiba is an oleoresix obtained from several species of 
Copaifera (Nat. Ord. Leguminosae), large trees peculiar to 
South America. C. Langsdorffii, a native of Brazil, is now 
recognized as the principal source of copaiba, and most of the 
copaiba of commerce is probably derived from the ports of Para 
and Maracaibo, in Brazil; Central America also yields copaiba. 
The juice is obtained from incisions in the stems of the trees ; 
as it at first exudes it is clear, colourless and very thin, but 
soon acquires a thicker consistence and a yellowish hue. As 
found in the shops it is a clear, transparent liquid, of the con- 
sistence of olive oil, of a pale-yellow colour, a peculiar agree- 
-mell and a pungent, nauseous, acrid taste. By ex- 
posure to the air it acquires a deeper colour and denser con- 
sistency. 



388 MATERIA MEDICA — BLENNORRHETICS. 

Copaiba is insoluble in water, but soluble in alcohol, ether 
and the volatile and fixed oils ; with alkalies and alkaline 
earths it forms a soap. It is chemically an oleoresin, with a 
minute portion of acetic acid. The volatile oil is officinal. 
The resin possesses acid properties, and is called copaivic acid. 
By exposure to the air copaiba gradually becomes darker and 
thicker, and finally hard and brittle, owing to the volatilization 
and oxidation of its oil. Copaiba was formerly called a balsam, 
but this title is incorrect, as it contains no btizoic or dnnamio 
acid. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of copaiba are analogous 
to those of the terebinthinates. In large doses it proves 
cathartic and occasionally emetic, and in small doses it is 
absorbed, communicating its peculiar odour to the secretions 
and exhalations, and stimulating the secretions from the mucous 
membranes and kidneys; it is also a gentle excitant to the cir- 
culatory system. The urine of persons who have taken copaiba 
for some time yields a precipitate with nitric acid, like albumi- 
nous urine, by the action of the acid on the resin. The resinous 
precipitate, however, is soluble in alcohol, which does not dis- 
solve coagulated albumen. Elimination takes place slowly. 
Occasionally copaiba causes symptoms of strangury when 
given in large doses. It sometimes produces an eruption on 
the skin. Copaiba is employed in diseases of the mucous 
membranes, particularly those of a chronic character, as 
chronic bronchitis, chronic diarrhoea, leucorrhoea, gonorrhoea, . 
gleet, catarrh and irritation of the bladder, etc., and, like tur- 
pentine, in rheumatism and iritis. As a remedy in gonorrhoea 
it has long enjoyed great popularity, and is given wit^ advant- 
age even in the earliest stages of the disorder. 

Administration. — Dose, gtt. xx to foj three time* - day in 
emulsion, with some aromatic water,* or in pills (massa co- 
paibce), made by mixing 94 parts of copaiba with 6 parts of 

* Chapman's Copaiba Mixture is, copaiba and spirit of nitrous ether, each 
half a fluidounce, powdered gum arabic and sugar, each a drachm, com- 
pound spirit of lavender, 2 fluidrachms, tincture of opium, a fluidrachm. 
distilled water, 4 Huidounces ; dose, a tablespoonful three times a day. 



CUBEB. 339 

magnesia, or inclosed in capsules of gelatin ; the pills are ab- 
sorbed with difficulty. It is also administered as a clyster, in 
emulsion. Cubeb is frequently prescribed with copaiba in the 
treatment of gonorrhoea. 

Oleum Copaiba (Oil of Copaiba) (C 15 H 24 ), obtained by dis- 
tillation from copaiba, is usually colourless, with the odour and 
taste of copaiba, and produces the same effects on the system. 
Dose, gtt. x-xv, in emulsion or dropped on sugar. 

CUBEB A — CUBEB. 

Cubeb is the unripe fruit of Cubeba officinalis (Nat. Ord. 
Piperaceae), a climbing perennial plant of Java and other parts 
of the East Indies. The berries are gathered for use when 
unripe, and are dried. They are about the size of a small pea, 
of a blackish or grayish-brown colour, a reticulated surface, 
and furnished with a stalk two or three lines long. The shell 
is hard, and contains a blackish seed, which is white and oily 
within. The odour of cubeb is aromatic ; the taste warm, 
acrid and camphoraceous. The berries deteriorate by age, 
most rapidly in powder, owing to the escape of their volatile 
oil. Their most interesting constituents are a volatile oil 
(which is officinal) (C 30 H 48 ), a principle called cubebin, and res- 
inous matter ; the resinous matter consists of both a hard and a 
soft resin, the former insoluble in ether, the latter soluble in 
ether, of acid reaction, and termed cubebic acid. The oil is 
carminative and stimulant, and the blennorrhetic and diuretic 
propertied of cubeb reside chiefly in the resin; cubebin is 
inert. 

Effec and Uses. — In large doses cubeb, like the other 
oleoresih f produces more or less gastro-enteric disturbance. 
In small doses it produces a stomachic effect like that of black 
pepper ; after its absorption it acts as a gentle excitant to the 
vascular system, with a very decided stimulant action on the 
mucous surfaces, particularly those of the urino-genital ap- 
paratus ; it also frequently proves diuretic. It is eliminated 
chiefly by the urine, increasing the excretion of uric acid, and 



840 MATERIA MEDICA — BLENNORRHETICS. 

under its use the urine yields a precipitate with nitric acid. 
An eruption, like urticaria, sometimes follows the administra- 
tion of both copaiba and cubeb. It is used chiefly in the treat- 
ment of gonorrhoea, and should be given in the early stage of 
the disease. In other mucous discharges, as chronic catarrh 
with profuse secretion, leucorrhoea, gleet, cystitis, etc., cubeb 
has been also employed with advantage. 

Administration. — Dose of the powder, 5i-iij three times a 
day, in gonorrhoea ; in chronic mucous disorders smaller doses 
are given. The OIL is often employed, but it does not possess 
the full virtues of cubeb — dose, gtt. x-xij, to be repeated and 
gradually increased ; it may be taken in emulsion, or dropped 
on sugar, or made into gelatinous capsules with oil of copaiba. 
The oleoresin contains both the volatile oil and resin, with a 
portion of cubebin, and is an excellent preparation — dose, 
tT^v-xxx, suspended in water ; of the tincture, the dose is 
£ 5i-ij three times a day ; of the fluid extract, the dose is 
f 5ss-i. Troches of cubeb are made with the oleoresin, oil of 
sassafras, extract of liquorice and gum arabic, mixed with 
syrup of tolu. Each troche contains gr. J of oleoresin. 



OLEUM SAN TALI — OIL OF SANTA L. 

The oil of Santal or oil of Sandal Wood is a volatile oil 
distilled from the wood of Santalum album (Nat. Ord. San- 
talacese), a small tree found in tropical Asia. 

The oil is pale, yellowish and thick, readily soluble in alco- 
hol when fresh, having an aromatic odour resembling the 
smell of the wood, and a pungent, spicy taste. It has been 
highly recommended in the treatment of gonorrhoea, in which 
disease its effects seem to be similar to those of copaiba, but 
it is not so apt to disagree with the stomach. It occasion- 
ally (in about four per cent, of the cases) produces vertigo, 
when the dose should be lessened or the medicine discontinued. 
It is very expensive, and is often adulterated with oil of cedar. 
It may be given in doses of TtLv-xx three times a day on a 



PAREIRA. 341 

lump of sugar, in mucilage, in alcohol and cinnamon water or 
in gelatine capsules. 

MATICO. 

This name is given to the leaves of Artanthe elongata (Nat. 
Ord. Piperaceae), a shrub of Peru. They are from two to 
six inches long by about an inch in breadth, oval-lanceolate 
and acuminate in shape, crenate, strongly veined or reticulated, 
bright-green on the upper surface, paler beneath, of a pleasant, 
aromatic odour and a strong, spicy, slightly astringent taste. 
The stalks and spikes of the plant are generally mixed with 
the leaves, more or less compressed into a lump of a greenish 
colour. Matico contains chlorophyll, resin, volatile oil, and a 
bitter principle, soluble in water and alcohol, termed maticin. 

Effects and Uses. — Matico is a pleasant, aromatic tonic, with 
a special determination to the mucous membranes. It is used 
as an alterative stimulant in the entire circle of diseased mucous 
membranes, especially those of the urinary passages. It is 
also used internally as a haemostatic, and locally as a styptic 
Dose, of the powder, 5ss-j three times a day. An infusion 
(not officinal) may be made by dissolving a troyounce in a pint 
of boiling water — dose, a wineglassful ; of the fluid extract, the 
dose is f5ss-j ; of the tincture, f 5j-ij may be given. 

PARE IB, A. 

Pareira or Pareira Brava is the root of Chondodendron 
tomentosum (Wat. Ord. Menispermacese), a native of Brazil. 
It comes to us in large, wrinkled, twisted or forked cylindrical 
pieces, of variable thickness and length, covered with a thin, 
grayish-brown bark. The interior is ligneous, yellowish, porous, 
inodorous, and of a sweetish, nauseous, bitter taste. It imparts 
its virtues to water, and contains a bitter alkaline principle 
termed cissampelina (C 18 H 2r N0 3 ), resin, fecula, etc. The 
stem is sometimes found in the shops mixed with the root ; it 
is inert. 

Effects and Uses. — Pareira brava is an excellent remedy in 



342 MATERIA MEDICA — BLENNORRHETICS. 

chronic diseases of the urinary passages, particularly chronic 
inflammation or irritation of the bladder, with morbid secretion. 
It is thought to be also tonic, aperient and diuretic. Dose, 
in substance, 5ss to 5j- But it is more conveniently given in 
infusion (atroyounce to boiling water Oj — not officinal) — dose, 
f5i-ij ; the fluid extract is much used— dose, from half a fluid- 
rachm to a fluidrachm.* 

BUCHU. 

This is the name given to the leaves of Barosma betulina 
and other species of Barosma (Nat. Ord. Rutacese), shrubby 
plants, growing at the Cape of Good Hope. As found in the 
shops, buchu leaves are from three-quarters of an inch to an 
inch and a half long, from three to five lines broad, elliptical, 
lanceolate-ovate or obovate, sometimes pointed, sometimes 
blunt, notched and glandular at the edges, and of a green 
colour, paler on the under surface. Three varieties are known, 
viz. : short or round buchu (derived from B. betulina), medium- 
sized (from B. crenulata), and long buchu (from B. serratifolia). 
They have a strong, aromatic odour and a bitterish taste, like 
that of mint. Water and alcohol extract their virtues, which 
depend on a volatile oil and bitter extractive. 

Effects and Uses. — Buchu is a gentle stimulant to the secre- 
tions generally, particularly to the kidneys and urinary mucous 
membranes ; it may be made to act also as a diaphoretic. It 
is employed in chronic catarrh of the urethra and bladder, 
nephritic complaints, retention or incontinence of urine; as a 
diuretic in dropsies, and as a diaphoretic in rheumatic and 
cutaneous complaints. Dose, of the powder, gr. xx-xxx ; of 
the fluid extract, f o^s— f oj- 

U V A U R S I. 

Arctostaphylos uva ursi, or Bearberry (Nat. Ord. Ericaceae), 
is a small trailing evergreen shrub, with coriaceous, obovate 

* A good prescription in irritable bladder is fluid extract pareira brava, 
f^i, compound spirit of juniper, f 3jij, benzoic acid, ^i, sulphate of mor- 
phia, gr. j ; dose, a teaspoonful three times a day. 



UVA ITRSI. 



343 



leaves (somewhat like the box leaves and red-whortleberry 
leaves), about half an inch in length, pale rose-coloured flowers 
appearing from June to September, and small red berries 
which ripen during the winter. It is found in the northern 
parts of Asia, Europe and America. The leaves are the 
only part used. When dried they have a faint hay-like odour 

Fig. 28. 




and a bitterish, astringent taste. They yield their virtues to 
water and alcohol, and contain tannic and gallic acids, ursone, 
a crystallizable glucoside termed arbutin, a bitter substance 
termed ericolin, extractive, resin, gum, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — Uva ursi is astringent, tonic and diu- 
retic, and exercises a particular control over discharges from 
mucous surfaces; hence its employment in catarrh of the 
bladder, chronic bronchitis with profuse discharge, etc. It is 
applicable also to the ordinary uses of the vegetable astringents. 
Dose of the powde?; 9j to 3ij three times a day. The fluid 
extract may be given in the dose of foss-foj. 



344 



MATERIA MEDICA — BLENNORRHETICS. 



CHIMAPHILA 



PIPSISSEWA, 



Chimaphila umbellata, Pipsissewa, Wintergreen, or Ground- 
Holly (Nat. Ord. Ericaceae), is a small indigenous evergreen 
plant, common to the northern parts of Europe, Asia and 
America, and found abundantly in woody situations in all parts 



Fig. 29 




of the United States. It has an erect stem three to ten inches 
high, lanceolate, somewhat wedge-shaped, serrated, dark-green 
leaves arranged in irregular whorls, and beautiful five-petalled 
flowers, of a white colour tinged with red and a very agreeable 



MYRRH. 345 

perfume, which appear in June. The leaves are the officinal 
portion. In the fresh state they have a fragrant smell when 
bruised, which they lose after drying. Their taste is bitterish 
and astringent, but somewhat aromatic. They contain arbutin, 
ericolin, ursone, tannic acid, etc. Chimaphila maculata, or 
Spotted Pipsissewa, possesses properties analogous to those of 
C. umbellata, from which it differs principally in the character 
of its leaves. They are of a deep olive-green colour, mixed 
with greenish-white ; and the flowers are of a pure white, and 
appear in July. 

Effects and Uses. — Pipsissewa is a tonic, astringent, diuretic 
and blennorrhetic, resembling buchu and uva ursi in its effects, 
but being a more active diuretic, and is used in the disorders 
of urinary organs to which they are applicable, and, from its 
diuretic properties, in dropsy, especially when attended with 
debility of the digestive organs. It is sometimes given in 
decoction (Sj to water Oj — not officinal), of which Oj may be 
taken in twenty-four hours. The fluid extract may be given in 
doses of foss-j. 

MYRRHA-s-MYREI. 

Myrrh is a gum-resinous exudation from Balsamodendron 
myrrha (Nat. Ord. Burseracese), a small shrubby tree of 
Arabia Felix and Africa. Most of the myrrh of commerce is 
probably derived from the eastern coast of Africa. The juice 
exudes spontaneously and concretes upon the bark. It is im- 
ported from Bombay, and occurs in small, semi-transparent, 
reddish-yellow fragments or tears — sometimes agglutinated to- 
gether in large masses — of irregular shape and size, an agree- 
able, peculiar odour and a bitter, aromatic taste. It is brittle 
and pulverizable, has a resinous fracture, and makes a light- 
yellowish powder. Inferior kinds of myrrh are darker and 
less translucent and odorous. Myrrh is a gum-resin (the resin 
being termed myrrhic acid), containing also a little volatile oil. 
It forms with water an emulsion, and is soluble in alcohol and 
ether. 

Effects and Uses. — Myrrh is a stimulant expectorant and 



346 MATERIA MEDICA — BLENNORRHETICS. 

emmenagogue. It is prescribed in chronic catarrhal and asth- 
matic affections in which a combined corroborant and expecto- 
rant effect is desirable, and also in chlorosis, amenorrhea, etc. 
Chalybeates and aloes are frequently united with it in uterine 
affections. Locally, it is a good application to spongy gums, 
aphthous sore mouth, etc. 

Administration. — -Dose, gr. x to 5ss in powder or pill, or 
suspended in water, as in mistura ferri composita (see p. 153). 
The tincture is employed chiefly externally ; dose, internally, 
f f >ss to f5j. Pills of aloes and myrrh, compound galbanum 
jnlls and compound iron pills are officinal emmenagogue pre- 
parations of myrrh. 



BENZOINDM — BENZOIN. 

Benzoin is a balsamic resin obtained from Styrax benzoin, 
or Benjamin Tree (Nat. Ord. Styracese), a tall tree of Sumatra, 
Java, Borneo and Siam. It is obtained by incisions in the 
bark, from which it readily exudes, afterwards hardening by 
exposure to the sun and air. Two kinds are known, the more 
valuable consisting chiefly of whitish tears, united by a reddish- 
brown connecting medium, and called benzoe amygdaloides, the 
other of brown or blackish lumps, without tears, known as 
benzoe in sortis (benzoin in sorts). Benzoin has a fragrant 
odour, a feeble, slightly aromatic taste, is soluble in alcohol 
and ether, and is precipitated from its alcoholic solution by 
water. Its chief constituents are resin and benzoic acid, 
which places it among the balsams ; it contains also a trace of 
extractive and of volatile oil, and sometimes cinnamic acid. 

Effects and Uses. — This drug owes its virtues chiefly to 
benzoic acid, which will be considered under the head of 
Antiseptics. Benzoin is a topical irritant, and, after ab- 
sorption, stimulates the mucous passages, espec^lly the 
aerian membranes. It resembles myrrh in its effects, but is 
rather more acrid and stimulating. It is adapted to chronic 
bronchial affections, but is seldom employed alone. As a 
fumigation in chronic laryngitis it has been recommended 



BALSAM OF PERU. 317 

by Trousseau and Pidoux. Dose, gr. x to 5ss. The tincture 
of benzoin and the compound tincture (containing benzoin, 
purified aloes, storax and balsam of tolu dissolved in alcohol) 
are used as stimulating expectorants and in bowel complaints ; 
dose, f5ss to foij. As benzoin has the property of obviating 
the rancidity to which lard is liable, this is a very useful vehicle 
for medicated ointments. Adeps benzoinatus is made by melt- 
ing together powdered benzoin 2 parts and lard 100 parts. 
Benzoin is much used in fumigating pastiles. 

STY RAX — STORAX. 

Storax is a balSi\m prepared from the bark of Liquidam- 
bar orientale (Nat. Ord. Hamamelacese), a native of Asia Minor. 
It is obtained by steaming the bruised bark and then express- 
ing it, and occurs in yellowish or brownish lumps, light and 
friable, yet more or less tenacious, of a fragrant odour and a 
warm taste. It contains a volatile oil termed styrol (C 8 H S ), 
resin, with cinnamic acid, and is therefore a balsam. Alcohol 
and ether are its proper solvents. It is almost always more or 
less adulterated. 

Effects and Uses. — It is used as a stimulant expectorant, 
chiefly in the compound tincture of benzoin ; dose, gr. x-xx. 

BALSA MUM PERUVIANS M — BALSAM OF PERU. 

Balsam of Peru is an empyreumatic liquid balsam obtained 
from Myroxylon pereirse (Nat. Ord. Leguminos^e), a tree of 
Central America. It is obtained from incisions in the bark, 
and is collected on rags inserted in the openings, which are 
afterwards boiled in water, when the balsam settles at the bot- 
tom, and the water is poured off. A white balsam, obtained 
from the {ruit of this tree by expression, and a tincture of the 
fruit in rum, are also known in Central America. Balsam of 
Peru has the consistence of honey, a dark, reddish-brown col- 
our, a pleasant smell, a warm, bitterish, acrid taste, and is 
soluble in alcohol and partially so in boiling water. It is 



348 MATERIA MEDICA — BLENNORRHETICS. 

heavier than water. Its constituents are resin, essential oil 
and einnamic and benzoic acids. 

Effects and Uses. — It is a stimulating blennorrhetic and 
tonic, employed occasionally in chronic catarrh, asthma, gon- 
orrhoea, leucorrhoea, etc., but not much used in this country. 
Externally it is applied to indolent ulcers. Dose, f3ss, in 
emulsion. 



BALSAMUM TOLUTANUM — BALSAM OF TOLU. 

Balsam of Tolu is a semi-liquid balsam obtained from 
Myroxylon toluifera (Nat. Ord. Leguminosae), a tree of the 
neighbourhood of Cartagena. It is procured from incisions 
in the trunk of the tree, and concretes in the vessels in which 
it is received. It has a soft, tenacious consistence, varying 
with the temperature, and by age becomes hard and resin-like. 
It is shining, translucent, of a reddish-brown colour, a fragrant 
odour and a warm, sweetish, pungent taste. It is inflammable, 
entirely soluble in alcohol and essential oils, and, like the other 
balsams, yields its acid to boiling water. Its ingredients are 
resin, volatile oil and einnamic and benzoic acids. 

Effects and Uses. — It is a stimulant blennorrhetic and tonic, 
useful in chronic catarrhal affections, and, from its agreeable 
flavour, much employed as an ingredient of cough mixtures. 
The vapour of an ethereal solution of this balsam is inhaled 
with advantage for the relief of cough. Dose, gr. x-xxx, in 
emulsion, frequently repeated. The tincture (tinctura tolu- 
tana) is added to cough mixtures; dose, f5i-f5ij- The syrup 
(syrupus tolutanus) is used as a vehicle for other medicines. 
Balsam of tolu is an ingredient of the compound tincture of 
benzoin. 

The following gum-resins, previously noticed among anti- 
spasmodics, are employed as expectorants : 

Asafcetida (Asafetida). (See p. 110.) 

Ammoniacum (Ammoniac). (See p. 112.) 

Galbanum. (See p. 111.) 



SAVINE. 349 



ORDER VI. — EMMENAGOGUES. 

Emmenagogues (from e^^via, the catamenia, and ayuyoc, ex- 
citing) are medicines which promote the menstrual discharge. 
This discharge may be suppressed from various causes, and 
hence very opposite classes of remedies are employed to restore 
it. Thus, when amenorrhea depends on anemia, the prepa- 
rations of iron are the most effectual emmenagogues ; on the 
other hand, when it occurs in connection with plethora, blood- 
letting and e vac u ANTS are resorted to. There are probably 
no articles which exert any specific influence upon the cata- 
menia, as the discharge from the uterus is not one of the 
excretions through which medicinal agents pass out of the sys- 
tem. Medicines, however, which excite the pelvic circulation 
and stimulate the organs in the neighbourhood of the uterus 
have a tendency to increase or excite the menstrual discharge. 
They are — 

1. The drastic cathartics, as Aloes (p. 291), etc. 

2. Many of the stimulating diuretics, particularly Petrose- 
linum (or its active principle, Apiol) (p. 329), and Canthar- 
ides (p. 829). 

3. Some of the blennorrhetics, particularly Senega (p. 330). 

4. GrUAiACUM (p. 314), usually classed with the diaphoretics. 
Indirectly, the menstrual discharge is frequently promoted 

by— 

1. Chalyheates, which are the best emmenagogues in chlo- 
rotic and anemic cases. 

2. Mercurials, which prove emmenagogue from their influ- 
ence in exciting the secretions generally. 

The following articles are employed exclusively as emmena- 
gogues : 

SABINA — SAVINE. 

Savine is the TOPS of Juniperus sabina (Nat. Ord. Coniferae), 
a small evergreen bushy shrub of the south of Europe. They 
resemble closely the tops of Juniperus virginiana, the indige- 



350 MATERIA MEDXCA — EMMENAGOGUES. 

nous Red Cedar, which are sometimes substituted for savine in 
the shops. The latter has a greenish colour, a strong, peculiar, 
heavy odour and a bitter, nauseous, resinous taste. Its vir- 
tues depend on a volatile oil, which is officinal. 

Physiological Effects. — Savin e is a local irritant. Taken 
internally, in medicinal doses, it stimulates the circulation and 
secretions, with a very decided action on the uterus. In large 
doses it will cause vomiting, purging, abdominal pain, sup- 
pressed or bloody urine, with symptoms of nervous depression, 
as shown in unconsciousness, stertorous breathing, perhaps 
convulsions, and death, usually from collapse ; fatal results 
have sometimes occurred from its use to provoke premature 
labour. 

Medicinal Uses. — Savine is employed internally almost ex- 
clusively as an emmenagogue, and is considered one of the 
best medicines that can be used to stimulate the action of the 
uterine vessels. Pereira pronounces it " the most certain and 
powerful emmenagogue of the whole Materia Medica." It has 
been successfully used in menorrhagia depending on relaxation 
of the uterine tissues (Wood, H. C). It has been also rec- 
ommended in chronic rheumatism, and as an anthelmintic. 
Topically, it is used to keep up the discharge from blisters, to 
destroy warts, etc. Dose, in powder, gr. v-x ; but it loses 
much of its oil by drying ; of the fluid extract the dose is 
TTjy-x. Ceratum sabince (25 parts of fluid extract added to 
90 parts of resin cerate) is used to make perpetual blisters. 

Cleum Sabine {Oil of Savine) (C 10 H 16 ) is the preparation 
principally used internally. Dose, gtt. v-x. 

Ruta (Rue) (not officinal). The leaves of Ruta graveolens 
(Nat. Ord. Rutacese), a perennial European plant, with tri- 
pinnate leaves, obovate leaflets and yellow flowers, are ranked 
among emmenagogues, and are used, popularly, to provoke 
abortion. Their action is similar to that of savine, than which, 
however, they are less powerful. Dose, gr. xv-xxx two or 
three times a day. Of the oil (oleum rutoe) the dose is gtt. 
ij-v. It is the only officinal preparation. 



ALTERATIVES. oC/1 

CLASS III. — HEMATICS. 

ORDER I.— H^EMATINICS. 

This order (from ai/ianva, the red colouring matter of the 
blood) includes only the Preparations of Iron, or Cha- 
lybeates. The chalybeates increase the number of blood- 
corpuscles, or the amount of hsematin in the blood, and are 
employed therapeutically in diseases dependent on a deficiency 
of these elements. They belong eminently to Jicematics (or 
medicines which occasion changes in the condition of the 
blood) ; but as they possess also general and local tonic effects, 
independent of their action on the blood, they have been classed 
and treated of among the mineral tonics (see p. 149). 

ORDER II. — ALTERATIVES. 

Alteratives may be defined to be medicines which produce 
such a modification of the nutritive processes as enables the 
vital principle to restore healthy action in morbid conditions 
of the system. Their effects are chiefly owing to a correcting 
influence on the quality of the circulating fluid. Thus, in in- 
flammations they diminish the abnormal quantity of fibrin in 
the blood, render its red corpuscles less disposed to aggregation, 
and decrease the number and adhesiveness of its white globules. 
In part, also, their curative operation is of a substitutive char- 
acter, by setting up an antagonistic action which takes the 
place of diseased action in the system. 

Under the influence of alteratives the secretions and ex- 
halations are increased, the textures softened, inflammatory 
action is arrested and morbid growths and deposits are 
absorbed. The exudation of plastic or coagulable lymph is 
checked, and, as a consequence, also the formation of false 
membranes. Visceral and glandular enlargements and indu- 

CD O 

rations are diminished and often disappear, and phlegmonous 
inflammation of every kind is opposed. 

If pushed too far, the alteratives soften and even destroy 



352 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

the textures, impoverish the blood so as to interfere with the 
functions of nutrition, and produce a condition of marasmus 
and cachexia. 

Their principal therapeutic employment is as antiphlogistic s 
or resolvents. The mercurials are chiefly employed in acute 
inflammations ; the preparations of iodine in chronic inflam- 
mations. In the treatment of acute inflammatory affections, 
mercurials are among the most important of our resources — 
especially in such as have a tendency to terminate in effusions 
of coagulable lymph. The iodic preparations are adapted to 
inflammations of a chronic character, and are particularly ser- 
viceable in indurations or enlargements of glands and organs, 
and in affections of the bones and fibrous tissues. 

By their substitutive or antagonistic action alteratives are 
highly efficacious in the treatment of many diseases. In this 
way syphilis is cured by the use of mercury, and intermittent 
fever by the use of arsenious acid. 

Owing to the injurious results which follow the prolonged 
exhibition of alteratives, they are to be administered with 
caution, and their effects closely watched. 

HYDRARGYRt PR.EPARATA — PREPARATIONS OF 
MERCURY. 

Metallic mercury or quicksilver is obtained principally from 
the sulphide (native cinnabar). The chief supply of quicksilver 
was long derived from Spain and Austria, but the markets of 
the United States are now furnished from New Almaden, in 
California. Mercury is an odourless, tasteless, volatile liquid 
metal, of a whitish colour. Its atomic weight is 199*7; its 
symbol is Hg. 

While it retains the liquid metallic state, mercury is inert ; 
but when taken internally it sometimes combines with oxygen 
in the alimentary canal, and thus becomes active. In the state 
of vapour it frequently proves injurious, in some instances 
exciting salivation, ulceration of the mouth, etc., in others 
inducing a peculiar affection of the nervous system termed 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 363 

shaking palsy {tremor mercurialis), which is often attended with 
loss of memory, vertigo and other evidences of cerebral disturb- 
ance, and sometimes terminates fatally. Workmen in quick- 
silver are liable to this affection. It is supposed by some chem- 
ists that the activity of mercurial emanations is owing to the 
oxidation of the metal before it is inhaled ; by others, that, in 
the finely- divided state in which it exists as a vapour, it is in 
itself poisonous. 

All the compounds of mercury possess activity. Some of 
them are violent caustic poisons ; all of them are more or less 
irritant. When the mercurials are taken internally, their 
effects vary with the quantity administered. In small and re- 
peated doses, their influence is first shown in an increase of the 
activity of the secernents and exhalants. The cutaneous, mu- 
cous, biliary, salivary, urinary and probabty also the pancreatic 
secretions are all increased in amount, and at the same time 
the absorbent system becomes more active, so that accumula- 
tions of fluids, morbid enlargements, indurations, etc., will 
often disappear. 

Mercury increases the flow of bile. Most of the mercurial 
preparations probably accomplish this merely in a mechanical 
manner, i. e., by causing reflex contraction of the gall bladder 
and ducts, due to the irritation of the mucous membrane of 
the duodenum ; but corrosive sublimate would seem, from the 
experiments of Rutherford and Yignal, to have considerable 
power as a stimulant of the hepatic secretory apparatus. 

When mercury is given in larger doses, these effects are more 
intense. The mucous membrane of the mouth and the salivary 
glands not only take on increased secretory action, but become 
irritated and inflamed. The gums first show the mercurial 
influence, and are tender and tumefied ; the whole mouth soon 
becomes sore ; the tongue is swollen ; and the saliva and buccal 
mucus flow abundantly, sometimes to the extent of several 
pints a day. At the same time the breath acquires a peculiar 
fetidity, and the patient perceives a metallic taste in the mouth. 
The resolvent action of mercury is now still more obvious than 
when its impression is milder, and considerable emaciation 



354 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

usually ensues from the absorption of fat. These effects, 
which are termed sialagogue (from the excessive flow of saliva). 
are commonly produced for the cure of diseases, and, as a 
general rule, gradually subside, leaving the health unimpaired. 
When, however, the use of mercury is pushed too far, or it is 
administered to persons peculiarly susceptible of its action, a 
train of very serious symptoms ensues — as excessive salivation, 
ulceration of the mouth, sloughing of the gums, loosening of 
the teeth, and occasionally necrosis of the alveolar processes. 
A peculiar febrile condition called mercurial fever, diarrhoea, 
skin diseases, neuralgia, rheumatism, disorder of the nervous 
system, and marasmus, are other symptoms which are fre- 
quently noticed after the abuse of mercury. % 

After its absorption mercury produces several important 
changes in the quality of the blood. Exceedingly minute 
doses given for some time, but not too frequently repeated, 
increase the proportion of red corpuscles in the blood. The 
bodily weight is also increased. Immediately upon the estab- 
lishment of salivation, the blood exhibits an inflammatory crust; 
but at a later period it loses colour, consistence and coagu- 
lability, and the relative proportion of albumen, fibrin and cor- 
puscles is diminished. This antiplastic action on the blood 
renders mercurials valuable as antiphlogistic remedies. 

Medicinal Uses. — Liquid metallic mercury was formerly 
administered to remove mechanical obstructions of the bowels, 
but its use has been abandoned. The preparations of mercury 
are employed therapeutically with various objects: 

1. As indirect tonics and cholagogues, — with a view to their 
action on the secretions, — in dyspepsia and constipation accom- 
panied with torpor of the liver, in gout, rheumatism, chronic 
skin diseases, etc. Blue pill, mercury with chalk, and calomel, 
are employed with this view ; the two former are preferred as 
least irritating. 

2. As antiphlogistics. Mercury was formerly given in 
nearly all cases of sthenic inflammation with a tendency to 
plastic effusion. At present, however, its use as an antiphlo- 
gistic is principally restricted to acute inflammation of the se- 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. SOD 

rous membranes of sthenic type during the stage of exudation, 
and after the plastic effusion has ceased to be poured out, with 
a view to prevent its organization and facilitate absorption. In 
this way it is given in pleuritis, pericarditis and peritonitis, 
and with a similar view in pneumonitis and iritis. Many writ- 
ers however, relying on other remedies, deprecate the use of 
mercurials in the treatment of these diseases, with the exception 
of iritis, in which they are universally acknowledged to be of 
benefit. Minute doses of mercurials, frequently repeated, are 
highly recommended in acute glandular affections about the 
throat and neck, as tonsillitis, parotitis, etc. (Bartholow). In 
acute sthenic dysentery, a mercurial — especially calomel — may 
often be given with advantage. When given with a view to their 
antiplastic effects, it is no longer thought necessary to cause pro- 
fuse salivation : it is sufficient to produce constitutional effects as 
manifested by a metallic taste in the mouth, slight tumefaction 
of the gums and slight tenderness of the teeth when knocked 
together forcibly. During the maintenance of this condition 
the patient should use warm clothing, avoid exposure to cold 
and take light and nourishing food. If salivation or ulceration 
occur, astringent gargles, as brandy and water, solutions of 
chlorinated soda or lime, alum, etc., may be employed. In cases 
of sloughing sores, nitrate of silver or the mineral acids should 
be applied. Gastro-enteric irritation is to be treated with laxa- 
tives and opiates. The mercurial cachexia requires change of 
air, generous diet, tonics, etc. When the system is contami- 
nated with mercury, it may be eliminated by the use of potas- 
sium iodide, which forms soluble compounds with the mercury 
retained in the economy. Mercurials are contraindicated in 
all asthenic inflammations, serous exudations, or where much 
debility exists. 

3. As antisyphilitics. Mercury has long been regarded as 
the only reliable antisyphilitic agent. It has no direct cura- 
tive influence on the primary symptoms ; but after the system 
has been contaminated with the syphilitic virus, mercury is the 
most certain and rapid means of destroying it. Wherever the 
hard chancre, with distinct induration (which is always in- 



3o6 materia medica — ALTERATIVES. 

dicative of constitutional taint), is present, mercurials should 
invariably be administered ; and in the treatment of secondary 
and of hereditary syphilis, a mercurial course is an indispens- 
able preliminary to other antisyphilitic medicines. In tertiary 
syphilis small doses of corrosive sublimate are often combined 
with potassium iodide with better eifects than when the iodide 
is given alone ; mercurials may be used not only internally, 
but by inunction and by fumigation, for Dr. Furbringer has 
shown that, although metallic mercury will not pass through 
the skin, yet when rubbed into the sebaceous follicles the se- 
baceous matter converts it into a soluble mercurous compound, 
which is then readily absorbed. 

Blue pill and calomel are the antiplastics principally resorted 
to ; but other preparations, as the iodides, are, employed in 
syphilis. In administering mercurials for their sialagogue 
action, we sometimes observe a cumulative effect : they may be 
exhibited, particularly to children, for some time without re- 
sult, when suddenly the most violent symptoms of mercurial 
saturation will be developed. 

4. As purgatives. The employment of calomel, blue pill, 
and mercury with chalk, as cathartics and anthelmintics, has 
been previously noticed (see p. 307). 

The following are the preparations of mercury which are 
employed medicinally : 

1. Metallic Mercury.-— When intimately mixed with pul- 
verulent or fatty bodies, mercury loses its liquid character — is 
said to be hilled, extinguished or mortified — and acquires 
medicinal activity. Its activity is probably owing to its reduc- 
tion to a state of minute division, which enables it to enter into 
combinations in the stomach. The officinal preparations of 
metallic mercury are : Massa hydrargyri (mass of mercury), 
nnguentum hydrargyri {mercurial ointment), emplastrum hy- 
drargyri {mercurial plaster), emplastrum ammoniaci cum Jiy- 
drargyro (ammoniac plaster ivith mercury), hydrargyrum cum 
cretd (mercury with chalk). 

2. Oxides. — Hydrargyri oxidum flavum (yellow oxide of 
mercury), unguentum hydrargyri oxidi flavi (ointment of 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 357 

yellow oxide of Mercury), hydrargyri oxidum rubrum (red 
oxide of mercury), unguentum hydrargyri oxidi rubri (ointment 
of red oxide of mercury). 

3. Chlorides. — Hydrargyri chloridum mite (mild chloride 
of mercury, or calomel), hydrargyri chloridum corrosivum (cor- 
rosive chloride of mercury, or corrosive sublimate). 

4. Iodides. — Hydrargyri iodidum viride (green iodide of 
mercury), hydrargyri iodidum rubrum (red iodide of mercury). 

5. Hydrargyri cyanidum (cyanide of mercury). 

6. Hydrargyrum ammoniatum (ammoniated mercury), un- 
guentum hydrargyri ammoniati (ointment of ammoniated mer- 
cury). 

7. Hydrargyri subsulphas flavus {yellow subsulphate of mer- 
cury). 

8. Hydrargyri sulphidum rubrum (red sulphide of mer- 
cury). 

9. Nitrates. — Unguentum hydrargyri nitratis (ointment of 
nitrate of mercury), liquor hydrargyri nitratis (solution of 
nitrate of mercury). 

Massa Hydrargyri (Mass of Mercury). This preparation, 
generally known as blue pill, is made by rubbing mercury 
(33 parts) with honey of rose (34 parts) and glycerin (3 parts) 
till all the globules disappear ; then adding powdered liquorice 
(5 parts) and marsh mallow (25 parts), and beating the whole 
into a mass. The trituration is now generally effected by 
machinery — usually by steam power. It is a soft, dark-blue 
mass, of a convenient consistence for making into pills. The 
mercury is in a state of minute division, and is chemically 
unaltered, though, perhaps, a very small portion of it is in a 
state of oxidation. The preparation changes colour from 
being kept, becoming of an olive and even reddish tint, in 
consequence of the further oxidation of the metal. As it is 
often adulterated, it is important that it should be purchased 
of a reliable house. 

Effects and Uses. — In full doses (gr. v-xv) blue pill acts as 
a laxative ; when given for this purpose it is usually followed 
in a few hours by a saline cathartic. In doses of gr. i-ij-iij, 



358 MATERIA MEDICA— ALTERATIVES. 

repeated at proper intervals, it is employed as an alterative or 
antiphlogistic, and is the favourite preparation for exciting 
salivation in chronic affections. When it moves the bowels, 
opium is combined with it. It may be plear intly given sus- 
pended in mucilage or syrup. 

Unguentum Hydrargyri {Mercurial Oint ent) (called also 
blue ointment) is made, by rubbing mercury ,vith compound 
tincture of benzoin and mercurial ointment, r! n adding suet 
and lard, previously melted together, and cr dnuing to rub 
until the globules disappear. It is an unctt 5, fatty body, 
of a bluish-gray colour, consisting of equal ,v eights of fatty 
matter and finely-divided mercury. A very i ill portion of 
mercurous oxide is pei aps present, and, as the ointment 
becomes darker by age, ?* further oxidation of the mercury 
probably takes place. 

Effects and Uses. — Mi -curial ointment, when either swal- 
lowed or rubbed into tht integuments, produces the consti- 
tutional effects of mercury ; locally, it has but lit j irritant 
effect. It is scarcely ever used internally in the United States 
or Great Britain, though in France it is highly esteemed as 
a sialagogue, in the dose of gr. ij, repeated. ExternaMy it is 
used to mercurialize the system by friction ; to disj e non- 
malignant tumours; as a dressing to syphilitic 'i 
destroy pediculi ; and to prevent suppuration and 
small-pox. 

• Emplastrum Hydrargyri {Mercurial Plaster) i, 
rubbing Svj of mercury with 5ij of olive oil and ? 
previously melted together, till the globules disappea 1 
adding oxij of melted lead-plaster. It is used as a • 
<>f venereal and other enlargements, to prevent pitting 
pox, etc., and is applied to the side in chronic hep 
may induce salivation. The plaster of ammoniac i 
cury {emplastrum ammoniaci cum hydrargyro) is 
mixing with heat 60 grains of olive oil with 8 grain 
limed sulphur, then adding 3 troyounces of mercul 
this mixture adding 12 troyounces of ammoniac, p 
digested with dilute acetic acid and strained; it is m ti ul- 

ulating than the foregoing. 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 359 

Hydrargyrum cum Creta (Mercury with Chalk) (called 
also gray 'powder) is prepared by rubbing 38 parts of mer- 
cury with 50 parts of prepared chalk and 12 parts of sugar of 
milk, till all the globules disappear. It is a grayish powder, 
containing mercury chiefly in a state of minute division. In 
full doses it is m gentle laxative, milder even than blue pill ; 
in smaller doses^t is an excellent alterative; and the chalk 
renders it antao'il It is employed chiefly as an alterative in 
infantile cases. Uid)ose, for adults, gr. v-xx ; for children, gr. 
ij or iij to gr. - ■ or x, in powder, and not in pills, as in the 
latter form the mercury becomes squeezed out of the chalk. 
The chlorides gl nitro-muriatic acid jare incompatible with all 
the metallic preparations of mercury .d- 

Hydrargyri Oxidum Rubrum kited Oxide of Mercury). 
This is mercuric oxide (HgO). It is made usually by dissolv- 
ing mercury in diluted nitric acid, wi^h a gentle heat, by which 
mercuric nitrate is formed ; and the^ nitric acid is afterwards 
decompose: and driven off by calcination. The red oxide of 
mercury, which is commonly called red precipitate, occurs in 
small shining scales, of a brilliant red colour, with a shade of 
orange. It has an acrid taste, and is nearly insoluble in water. 
Its efft are those of a powerful irritant, and when taken in- 
ti ^en in small doses, it excites vomiting and piiro-ino; : 

loses, gastro-enteritis. It is rarely or never used 
(dose, gr. yg-g); externally it is applied as an 
either in powder or ointment, to chancres, indolent 
'i Unguentum hydrargyri oxidi rubri (ointment of 
\f mercury) consists of red oxide (1 part) mixed with 
) parts) : it is a very useful stimulating ointment in 
ilcers, porrigo, ophthalmia, etc. 

gyri Oxidum Flavum (Yellow Oxide of Mercury) 
■)j mixing a solution of corrosive sublimate with solu- 
totassa ; potassium chloride is formed in solution, and 
j oxide (HgO) is precipitated as an orange-yellow 
fliich, on being heated, assumes a red colour. The 
xdde is without odour, of an acrid taste, is very slightly 
solu n water, and is insoluble in cold alcohol and ether. 



3G0 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

This preparation is preferred for some purposes to the red 
oxide, owing to its greater purity, and especially to its oc- 
curring in the form of a completely amorphous powder, exhibit- 
ing no evidence of crystalline particles even under the micro- 
scope. This gives it a superiority, as a local application to the 
conjunctiva in diseases of the eye, over the red oxide, which, 
from the crystalline character of its particles, causes more or 
less irritation. Unguentum hydrargyri oxidi flavi (ointment 
of yellow oxide of mercury) consists of yellow oxide 1 part, 
mixed with ointment 9 parts. Oleatum hydrargyri (oleate 
of mercury) consists of yellow oxide 1 part, dissolved in 
oleic acid 9 parts by means of heat. Yellow wash (a favourite 
application to phagedoenic venereal ulcers) consists of yel- 
low oxide of mercury suspended in a weak solution of calcium 
chloride, and is made by adding corrosive sublimate 5j to lime 
solution Oj. Black wash (a favourite application to chancres 
and other sores) is an impure mercurous oxide (Hg 2 0) in a 
weak solution of calcium chloride, and is made by adding calo- 
mel 5j to lime solution Oj. 

Hydrargyri Chloridum Mite (Mild Ohloride.of Mercury). 
This preparation (mercurous chloride), well known as calomel 
(Hg 2 Cl 2 ), is made by subliming. a mixture of mercurous sulphate 
and sodium chloride (common salt) ;■ a double decomposition 
takes place, by which mercurous chloride and sodium sulphate 
are formed. The mercurous sulphate is previously obtained by 
boiling mercury in sulphuric acid, and afterwards triturating 
the resulting mercuric sulphate with mercury. Calomel, as 
thus procured in mass, is liable to contain a little corrosive 
sublimate. It should be reduced to powder, and washed re- 
peatedly with boiling distilled water until the absence of a 
white precipitate with ammonium hydrate shows that the cor- 
rosive sublimate has been removed. With a view of obtaining 
calomel in a state of very minute division, its vapour is con- 
densed in a receiving vessel filled with steam, whereby it takes 
the form of a very fine powder, and is perfectly free from cor- 
rosive sublimate. The calomel thus prepared (known as JewelVs 
or Howard's calomel) is finer and more active than can be ob- 
tained by levigation and elutriation. 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 361 

Calomel, as usually manufactured by sublimation, is in the 
form of white fibrous, crystalline cakes. It may be obtained 
in the shape of quadrangular prismatic crystals. As found in 
the shops it is a light-buff or ivory-coloured powder, tasteless, 
inodorous, insoluble in water, alcohol and ether, unalterable in 
the air, but blackening by long exposure to light. It should 
be kept in bottles painted black or covered with black paper. 
Jewell's calomel is a perfectly white powder. When pare, 
calomel is completely vaporizable by heat ; it strikes a black 
colour, free from reddish tinge, with solutions of the fixed 
alkalies ; and should not, when digested with water, form a 
white precipitate with ammonia, unless it contain corrosive 
sublimate. 

Incompatibles. — The alkalies, alkaline earths, alkaline car- 
bonates, soaps and hydrosulphates are incompatible with calo- 
mel. Nitro-muriatic acid should not be prescribed with it, for 
fear of generating corrosive sublimate. Preparations contain- 
ing hydrocyanic acid, and potassium, ammonium or sodium 
chloride, produce the same change. It is asserted that calo- 
mel is converted into corrosive sublimate in the stomach by the 
muriatic acid which it encounters, but there are many reasons 
for rejecting this hypothesis, and more probably it unites with 
the albuminous peptones, forming a compound which is soluble 
in the gastric fluid. 

Effects and Uses. — Calomel produces the effects of the mer- 
curials already described, causing bilious stools, not from direct 
stimulation of the liver, but probably in a reflex manner ; stim- 
ulating the intestinal glands, and in purgative doses proves 
also a valuable anthelmintic. Calomel agrees well with the 
stomach, and will often be borne when other purgatives would 
not be tolerated. From the certainty and mildness of its opera- 
tion it is more employed than any of the other preparations of 
mercury, although blue pill, which, if less certain, is milder, is 
preferred under some circumstances. Calomel has been fre- 
quently taken in very large doses without any bad effects; but 
cases are recorded in which, in excessive quantity, it has acted 
as an irritant poison. As a purgative it is employed in doses 



362 MATERIA MEDICA— ALTERATIVES. 

of gr. vi-xij in fevers and many other affections ; gr. ss-j at 
bed time will often prove sufficiently purgative in the morning ; 
as an anthelmintic, in the same doses ; and in both cases it is 
to be followed in a few hours by a saline draught, castor oil 
or senna. Calomel is often given in combination with other 
cathartics, as jalap, rhubarb, aloes, scammony, colocynth and 
gamboge. As an antiphlogistic in inflammatory cases calomel 
is given in doses of gr. \ to gr. j, every one, two or three 
hours; as an eccritic,m these doses twice or thrice a day. In 
the dose of gr. y 1 ^— j, frequently repeated, it is one of the best 
means of checking obstinate vomiting. -It is sometimes added 
to other medicines to increase their action on the secretions, 
as diuretics, antimonials, etc. To children, calomel may be 
given in proportionally larger doses than to adults, and it 
rarely salivates them. In some cases of infantile diarrhoea, 
very minute doses of calomel, as gr. Jg, ^ 5 , J, every hour or 
two, are highly efficacious. Externally, calomel is applied in 
powder, as an errhine, in amaurosis ; and made into an oint- 
ment (5j to §j lard) it is an excellent application in a variety 
of cutaneous affections. 

Hydrargyri Chloridum Corrosivum {Corrosive Chloride 
of Mercury). This is mercuric chloride, commonly called cor- 
rosive sublimate (HgCl 2 ). It is made by subliming a mixture 
of sodium chloride and mercuric sulphate (which is previously 
obtained by boiling mercury with sulphuric acid) ; double de- 
composition takes place, resulting in the formation of mercuric 
chloride and sodium sulphate. Corrosive sublimate occurs in 
the form of white, semi-transparent, crystalline masses, per- 
manent in the air, inodorous, and of an acrid, styptic taste. 
It is soluble in 16 parts of cold water or 3 parts of boiling 
water, more soluble in alcohol, and still more so in ether. 
The aqueous solution, when exposed to light, is decomposed, 
with the precipitation of calomel and evolution of hydrochloric 
acid. It is incompatible with many of the metals, the alkalies 
and their carbonates, soap, lime-solution, tartar emetic, silver 
nitrate, the lead acetates, the sulphides and iodides of potas- 
sium and sodium, the sulphides generally, syrup of sarsa- 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 363 

parilla, and with many vegetable substances (as the bitters) 
and albuminous liquids (as milk, etc.). The tests for detecting 
corrosive sublimate in solution are : 1. A solution of potassa, 
soda or lime throws down a yellow precipitate ; 2. Potas- 
sium carbonate, a brick-red precipitate ; 3. Ammonia, white 
ammoniated mercury ; 4. Potassium iodide, a bright scarlet-red 
mercuric iodide, readily soluble in excess of the precipitant ; 

5. Stannous chloride, in small amount, a white precipitate of 
calomel — in excess, a dark-gray precipitate of metallic mercury ; 

6. Sulphuretted hydrogen, or a sulphide, in minute amount, 
produces a whitish or gray precipitate, and in large amount a 
black sulphide ; 7. If the solution is acidulated with hydro- 
chloric acid, and bright copper-i'oW, wire or gauze is plunged 
into it, the copper becomes coated with a silvery-white deposit 
of mercury; or a slip of gold- fo\\, wound round a slip of zinc- 
foil, may be introduced into the liquid, when it will become 
covered with a silvery film of metallic mercury, and in both 
cases the metal may be afterwards obtained by sublimation in 
the form of globules. 

Physiological Effects. — In medicinal doses, as gr. yg-g? cor ~ 
rosive sublimate occasions a beneficial alterative effect, without 
any obvious activity. It is a true hepatic stimulant of consid- 
erable power, and feebly stimulates the intestinal glands. Its 
continued use may cause salivation, but it has less tendency to 
produce this result than any other preparation of mercury. 
Medicinal doses, if too large or too long continued, frequently 
produce gastro-enteric symptoms and the constitutional effects 
of mercury. In excessive doses corrosive sublimate is a vio- 
lent caustic poison, from its affinity for the albumen, fibrin and 
other constituents of the tissues. It acts very, rapidly, pro- 
ducing the most intense gastro-enteritis, with violent vomiting 
and purging, abdominal pain and tenderness, bloody stools, 
with death from collapse, or, after a time, with convulsions 
and coma. The urine is albuminous or bloody, diminished in 
amount or suppressed. The best antidote is albumen (in the 
form of white of eggs) ; or, if this is not attainable, gluten (in 
wheaten flour) or casein (in milk) may be substituted. JFer- 



364: MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

rous sulphide (if given immediately), and a mixture of iron 
filings (two parts) with gold dust (one part), also decompose 
corrosive sublimate. In cases of poisoning, the stomach must 
be evacuated as soon as possible, and the after-treatment 
consists in the free use of demulcents, opiates, and topical 
depletion. 

Medicinal Uses. — Corrosive sublimate is used chiefly as an 
alterative in secondary syphilis, both by the stomach and by 
hypodermic injection ; also in cutaneous and rheumatic affec- 
tions, and as a sorbefacient in old dropsies ; it is a good rem- 
edy, too, in chronic diarrhoea and dysentery with slimy and 
bloody discharges. In tertiary syphilis it is often combined 
advantageously with potassium iodide ; dose, gr. y^-J three 
or four times a day, in pill or solution. It has been used in 
secondary syphilis, hypodermically ; dose, gr. g 1 ^. Externally 'it 
may be used as a caustic. It is destructive to the lower forms 
of life, and hence may be used as an antiseptic in weak solution 
(1 part to 2000 parts of water, or about gr. j to f 5Jvss), instead 
of carbolic acid ; a weak solution (gr. J-i-ij to water f §j) is much 
employed as a wash to ulcers, an injection in gleet, a collyrium, 
etc. An ointment (gr. J-i-ij to lard 5j) is a good application 
in porrigo, tinea, eczema, pityriasis, and skin diseases generally 
of parasitic Origin. There is danger from the external appli- 
cation of corrosive sublimate to a large surface. 

Hydrargyri Iodidum Viride (Green Iodide of Mercury) 
is made by rubbing mercury and iodine together, with the addi- 
tion of a little alcohol. It is mercurous iodide (Hg 2 I 2 ), and is a 
greenish-yellow powder, insoluble in water and alcohol, but 
soluble in ether. By exposure to light it is partially decom- 
posed, and becomes of a dark-olive colour. 

Effects and Uses. — This mercurial exercises a specific influ- 
ence over the lymphatic and glandular systems, and is employed 
in syphilis and scrofula. Dose, gr. j, gradually increased to 
gr. iij or iv ; it should not be given with potassium iodide, 
which decomposes it into red iodide and metallic mercury. Ex- 
ternally it • is applied, in the form of ointment, to syphilitic 
ulcers, etc. 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 365 

Hydrargyri Iodidum Kubrum (Red Iodide of Mercury) 
is mercuric iodide (Hgl 2 ). It is made by mixing solutions of 
potossium iodide and mercuric chloride, from which a double 
decomposition ensues, resulting in the formation of potassium 
chloride in solution, while red iodide of mercury is precipitated. 
It is a scarlet-red powder, which becomes yellow when heated, 
insoluble in water, but soluble in boiling alcohol and solutions 
of potassium iodide, sodium chloride, etc. It is a power- 
ful irritant and caustic, and is employed in the same cases as 
the green iodide, though much more energetic. It is useful in 
rheumatism, especially when of syphilitic origin. Dose, gr. 
Y 1 ^, gradually increased to gr. ¥ , in pill or alcoholic solution ; 
or, still better, dissolved in a solution of potassium iodide. 
Externally it may be used in the form of ointment (gr. xvj 
mixed with ointment §jj. 

Hydrargyri Cyanidum (Mercuric Cyanide). This salt is 
made by adding a solution of potassium ferrocyanide to sul- 
phuric acid, by which hydrocyanic acid is produced, and this, 
being received in a vessel containing water and red oxide of 
mercur}^, generates water and mercuric cyanide (Hg(CN) 2 ). It 
is found usually in the form of permanent prismatic white 
and opaque crystals, of a disagreeable styptic taste, soluble in 
water, but not in alcohol. It is an active poison, and is used 
as an antisyphilitic remedy, as a substitute for corrosive subli- 
mate, over which it has the advantage of not producing epigas- 
tric pain, and not being decomposed by alkalies and organic 
substances. Dose, gr. -Jg to J. 

Hydrargyrum Ammoniatum (Ammoniated Mercury). This 
preparation, commonly called ivJiite precipitate, is made by 
precipitating a solution of corrosive chloride of mercury by am- 
monia ; ammonium chloride is formed in solution, and ammo- 
niated mercury is thrown down. It is the chloride of mercuric 
ammonium. In symbols the reaction may be thus expressed : 
HgCl 2 +2NH 4 HO=NH 2 HgCH-NH 4 Cl + 2H 2 0. It is a per- 
fectly white powder, insoluble in water and alcohol, decomposed 



366 MATERIA MEDICA ALTERATIVES. 

by boiling water, inodorous, and has an earthy, afterwards 
metallic, taste. It cannot be mixed with iodine, bromine or 
chlorine without decomposition. It is largely adulterated, 
chiefly with calcium sulphate. Its effects are poisonous, 
but it is used only as an external application, in the form of 
ointment {unguentum hydrargyri ammoniati, 1 part of am- 
moniated mercury to 9 parts of benzoinated lard), to cutaneous 
eruptions, and to destroy pediculi. Four grains, mixed with 
half an ounce of powdered sugar, makes a good snuff-powder 
in ozoena. 

Hydrargyri Subsulphas Flavus {Yellow Subsulphate of 
Mercury). This salt, commonly called turpeth mineral, from 
its resemblance to the root of Ipomcea turpethum, is made by 
throwing mercuric sulphate (as obtained from the action of sul- 
phuric acid on mercury) into boiling water; the mercuric sul- 
phate is instantly decomposed into a soluble acid salt and the 
insoluble yellow subsulphate — turpeth mineral — which is pre- 
cipitated (Hg(HgO) 2 S0 4 ). It is an inodorous, lemon-yellow 
powder, entirely dissipated by heat, of a rather acrid taste, and 
sparingly soluble in water. It has been employed as an alter- 
ative, in doses of gr. J-J ; as an emetic, in croup it is highly 
recommended in doses of gr. ij-v in syrup or honey, repeated 
in fifteen minutes if there has not been decided vomiting, and 
given throughout the attack whenever the breathing becomes 
suffocative from accumulations of mucus. It produces free 
vomiting without effort or subsequent depression ; it has been 
used in chronic enlargement of the testis, in the same doses; 
and as an errhine, in chronic ophthalmia and diseases of the 
head. In an overdose it is poisonous, forty grains having 
proved fatal. 

Hydrargyri Sulphidum Rubrum [Red Sulphide of Mer- 
cury), or cinnabar (which is found as a native combination), 
is manufactured by subliming a mixture of one part of sub- 
limed sulphur and five parts of mercury. It is mercuric sul- 
phide (HgS), and occurs in the form of heavy, brilliant, deep- 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 367 

red crystalline masses, which are inodorous, tasteless, entirely 
volatilizable by heat, and insoluble in water and alcohol. It is 
not employed internally, but is used in the way of fumigation, 
in venereal ulcers of the throat and nose ; 5ss may be thrown 
on a red-hot iron and inhaled ; but the black oxide is a better 
substance for mercurial fumigation. Cinnabar is used as a 
paint, under the name of vermilion. 

UnguenTum Hydrargyri Nitratis (Ointment of Nitrate 
of Mercury). The nitrate of mercury is employed chiefly in 
the form of ointment. This preparation, known as citrine 
ointment, may be made by dissolving a troyounce and a half 
of mercury in 3J troyounces of nitric acid, and adding the 
solution to 16 troyounces of lard melted at 200°, stirring until 
effervescence ceases. The chemical changes which result here 
are not precisely known ; but mercuric nitrate (2(Hg2N0 3 ).H 2 0) 
is probably formed, with fatty acids and ela'idin. Citrine oint- 
ment has a fine yellow colour and an unctuous consistence; but 
if not very carefully made, it becomes greenish, hard and fri- 
able. It is an excellent stimulant and alterative application, 
much employed in porrigo, psoriasis, crusta lactea, impetigo, 
psorophthalmia, and a wide range of ulcerated and eruptive 
affections. It is best to dilute it, at first, with lard. 

Liquor Hydrargyri Nitratis (Solution of Nitrate of Mer- 
cury) (mercuric nitrate) (Hg2N0 3 ) is prepared by dissolving red 
oxide of mercury §iij 5\j in a mixture of nitric acid §iij grs. 
315 in distilled water, gr. 585. It is a dense, transparent, 
nearly colourless liquid (sp. gr. 2*100), of a strongly acid taste, 
containing about 50 per cent, of mercuric nitrate in solution 
with some free nitric acid, and is employed as a caustic appli- 
cation in hospital gangrene, venereal and malignant ulcers, and, 
diluted, in cutaneous affections. 



o68 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

AURI ET SODII CHLORIDUM — AURIC AND SODIU.M 

CHLORIDE. 

Auric and sodium. chloride is a mixture of equal parts of 
gold chloride and sodium chloride (AuCl 3 NaC1.2H 2 0). It is an 
orange-coloured salt, without smell but having a nauseous me- 
tallic taste. It is very soluble in water ; also soluble in alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — Locally it is a caustic. Internally it is a 
stimulant to the nervous system, especially to the spinal cord. 
It acts like the mercurials on the blood, reducing the oxidizing 
power of the red globules (Farquharson). It stimulates the 
glandular secretion and increases the secretion of urine and .of 
perspiration. Salivation, without tendency to ulceration, some- 
times occurs after prolonged use, but is less apt to occur after 
the use of this salt than after the other salts of gold (Martin, 
Schmidt's Jahrb., June, 1870). In large doses it causes violent 
gastro-enteritis. It is said to stimulate the sexual organs and 
to increase the catamenia. Large doses cause symptoms anal- 
ogous to those of poisoning by mercuric chloride. The same 
treatment is indicated. 

This salt is used chiefly as an alterative in chronic cases of 
tertiary syphilis and in scrofula. It is also recommended in 
nervous dyspepsia, duodenal catarrh, etc. In the chronic forms 
of Bright's disease, granular and fibroid kidney and the so- 
called depurative disease, Dr. Bartholow has seen remarkable 
improvement follow the use of small doses of this remedy. 
Dose, gr. ^q-jV- ^ * s Dest gi y en in pill or wafer. 



IODUM — IODINE. 

Iodine is an elementary, non-metallic substance, found in the 
vegetable, animal and mineral kingdoms of nature, as in marine 
plants, oysters, sponges, mineral springs, etc. It is chiefly 
manufactured from the residuum of kety (the impure soda 
obtained from the incineration of sea-weeds), in which it exists 
as a sodium iodide, by the action of sulphuric acid and man- 



IODINE. 369 

ganese dioxide. It occurs in crystalline scales, of a bluish- 
black colour and metallic lustre, of a strong, peculiar odour 
and a hot, acrid taste. It is very volatile, evaporating even 
at common temperatures ; is freely soluble in glycerin, alcohol 
and ether, and but very slightly soluble in water (1 part in 
7000 parts of water). Its solubility in water is very much 
increased by the addition of certain salts, as the potas- 
sium iodide, sodium chloride, etc. When heated its vapour 
has a rich violet colour, whence its name (from «<&%, violet). 
Iodine may be detected in very minute quantity by starch, 
which produces with it a deep-blue colour ; if in combination, 
the iodine must be first freed with a little nitric acid, or still 
better with chromic acid (which may be evolved by the addition 
of a single drop of very dilute solution of potassium bichro- 
mate, when starch and nitric acid have been employed ineffect- 
ually). Chloroform has also been proposed as a test. 

Physiological Effects. — Iodine is an antiseptic and antizy- 
motic, and is a protoplasmic poison, killing the lower forms of 
animal and vegetable life. It acts locally as an irritant; when 
applied to the skin it stains it yellow, and causes itching, red- 
ness and desquamation ; and when inhaled in the form of 
vapour, it excites cough and heat in the air passages. Taken 
internally, in medicinal doses, it causes a sensation of heat and 
burning in the stomach, and soon irritates that organ. It is 
readily absorbed by the mucous membranes generally, and is 
found in the b]ood principally in combination with the sodium 
of that fluid ; after absorption it frequently produces a remedial 
alterative and resolvent effect, without any obvious disturbance 
of the functions. In a physiological condition patients become 
thin under its use, though when iodine or the iodides are ad- 
ministered in syphilis, their alterative action on the nutrition 
produces emboripoint, due to the elimination of the syphilitic 
poison which has depressed nutrition and the consequent reac- 
tion of the system. It excites the secretions generally, increas- 
ing the flow of urine, slightly relaxing the bowels, often 
producing a marked irritant effect on the respiratory mucous 
membrane and salivary glands, and is readily and rapidly 
24 



370 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

eliminated from the blood, chiefly in the urine, but also by the 
mucous membranes generally. If administered in too large 
doses, or to persons of irritable stomach, it produces subacute 
gastro-enteritis ; and when continued for a long time it will 
produce gastro-enteric symptoms — headache, giddiness and 
other evidences of cerebro-spinal disturbance — marasmus — 
sometimes discoloration of the skin — occasionally salivation — 
and frequently a wasting of the mammce and testicles. This 
train of symptoms is termed iodism. In excessive doses it 
may act as an irritant poison, and has even produced death ; 
but such a result is rare. Enormous quantities have been 
taken with very slight effects. The antidote is starch. The 
absorption of iodine is shown by its presence in the blood and 
various secretions. 

Medicinal Uses. — Iodine has been used with success in some 
cases of vomiting of pregnancy ; a few drops of the tincture 
may be given for this purpose. It is a most valuable resolvent 
remedy in chronic visceral and glandular enlargements, indu- 
rations, thickening of membranes, tumours, etc. It is employed 
chiefly in bronchocele and scrofula, but it is useful in every 
variety of chronic tumour and enlargement ; also as an alter- 
ative in secondary syphilis and other chronic affections. It 
is highly recommended by the Germans in the treatment of 
typhoid fever, reducing the temperature and restraining diar- 
rhoea ; the compound solution or tincture may be given, largely 
diluted. Recently the value of iodine in malarial fevers has 
been conclusively shown, generally promptly arresting the 
attack. The compound tincture should be given in doses of 
TTjx-xv thrice daily (Dr. Anderson, quoted by Ringer). Its 
vapour has been inhaled with benefit in chronic bronchitis and 
phthisis. It is a valuable topical remedy, and is applied in 
the form of tincture, with the greatest advantage, to enlarged 
glands (especially when scrofulous), in the various cutaneous 
affections, lupus, erysipelas, rheumatism, gout, phlegmons, car- 
buncles, wounds, diseases of joints, poisoned parts, to prevent 
pitting in small-pox, as a counter-irritant to the chest in 
phthisis, chronic bronchitis and pleurisy, as an injection in 



IODINE. 371 

hydrocele, in encysted bronchocele, and even into the pleural 
cavity in chronic pleurisy, etc., etc. The hypodermic injection 
of iodine may be used with excellent effect in hypertrophied 
tonsils, goitre, glandular and cystic tumours, etc. The tincture 
should be deeply injected into the part, and care must be taken 
not to throw the injection into a vessel. Iodine ranks also 
among the best of the disinfectants, being available from the 
ease of its application as well as its ready portability. 

Administration. — Iodine is rarely exhibited alone, but usu- 
ally in conjunction with potassium iodide (see p. 372). To 
avoid gastric irritation, it is best given after a meal, particu- 
larly when amylaceous substances have been taken, as it forms 
with them iodized starch. Dose, gr. J-J two or three times 
daily. Liquor iodi compositus — compound solution of iodine 
— sometimes known as LugoVs Solution (iodine 5vj, potas- 
sium iodide ojss, distilled water Oj), is the usual preparation 
in which iodine is administered internally ; dose, TT|v-xv three 
times a day, in sweetened water, and gradually increased. The 
tincture (tinctura iodi) (8 parts to alcohol 92 parts) is of a deep- 
brown colour, and undergoes a gradual change when kept long ; 
water precipitates the iodine from it, hence it is little employed 
internally ; dose, gtt. x-xx, repeated and increased. Exter- 
nally it is extensively applied to erysipelatous and poisoned 
parts, chilblains, in cutaneous affections, etc., etc. The com- 
pound tincture (iodine toss, potassium iodide t§j, alcohol Oj) is 
not officinal, but has the advantage over the tincture that 
it may be diluted with water without decomposition ; dose, 
gtt. xv-xxx. Iodine ointment (unguentum iodi) (made with 
iodine 4 parts, potassium iodide 1 part, water 2 parts, and 
benzoinated lard 93 parts) is employed as a local application 
in goitre, scrofulous tumefactions, etc. Iodine baths have been 
employed, with iodine and potassium iodide dissolved in water, 
in a wooden bath-tub, in the proportion of iodine gr. iij and 
iodide gr. vj to a gallon of water. 

Iodine is employed in medicine in various chemical combina- 
tions. The iron, lead and mercurial iodides have been noticed. 
Iodized starch (cimylum iodatum) has been highly recommended 



372 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

as a dressing for syphilitic ulcers, etc. Zinc iodide (see p. 164) 
is employed as a tonic and astringent. Sulphur iodide (sul- 
phuris iodidum) is prepared by heating together iodine 4 parts 
and washed sulphur 1 part ; it is a grayish-black solid sub- 
stance, of a radiated crystalline appearance, having the smell 
and taste of iodine, decomposed upon exposure to the air and 
by boiling water and alcohol, insoluble in water, but soluble in 
60 parts of glycerin ; it is used internally in scrofulous and 
cutaneous affections, in doses of gr. J-j, and externally in 
tinea capitis, lupus, lepra, acne, etc., in the form of ointment 
(not officinal) (gr. xxx to lard §j). 



POTASSII IODIDUM — POTASSIUM IODIDE. 

This salt is prepared by treating an aqueous solution of 
potassa with iodine in slight excess. By this process a mixture 
of iodide potassium and potassium iodate is obtained, and 
the iodate is afterwards deoxidized and converted into iodide 
by heat and mixture with powdered charcoal. Potassium 
iodide (KI) occurs in semi-opaque, white or transparent an- 
hydrous crystals^ permanent in a dry air, rather deliquescent 
in a moist one, of an acrid, saline taste, somewhat like that of 
common salt. It is wholly soluble in water and alcohol, and 
its aqueous solution dissolves iodine, forming ioduretted potas- 
sium iodide. It is frequently adulterated with other salts. It 
is incompatible with ammonium salts, sodium sulphate, nitrate, 
phosphate and borate, potassium and magnesium sulphates, sp. 
nitrous ether, soluble lead salts and the mercurials generally ; 
with potassium chlorate, if a mineral acid be added, a poison- 
ous potassium iodate is produced. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of potassium iodide are 
analogous to those of iodine, but less energetic. Locally it 
acts as an irritant, and in large doses sometimes occasions 
nausea, vomiting, heat of stomach, and purging ; but it may 
be given in larger doses, and for a longer period, than iodine 
without causing gastro-enteric derangement. It stimulates the 
secretions, particularly those from mucous membranes, and 



AMMONIUM IODIDE. 373 

very often produces coryza. Potassium iodide decidedly lessens 
the secretion of milk, and as it disturbs the function of the 
gland the relative quantity of the different ingredients fluctuates. 
Iodine appears in the milk very soon after the first dose of the 
salt is taken, and disappears as soon as the drug is stopped. It 
is found in combination with the casein of the milk, but the 
amount present bears no constant relation to the amount of the 
salt administered (Dr. Max Stumpf, Deutsches Archiv. fur 
klinische Med., Jan., 1882, quoted in Bost. Med. and Surg. 
Jour., Aug. 3, 1882). Its constitutional effects are powerfully 
alterative and resolvent, and it is employed in bronchocele, 
scrofula, secondary syphilis and other chronic diseases, par- 
ticularly those accompanied with enlargements or indurations. 
It is a most valuable antisyphilitic remedy when the bones and 
fibrous tissues are affected. In chronic rheumatism and gout, 
particularly where the fibrous tissues are attacked, it is of 
great efficacy. As a diuretic in serous effusions it has been 
found useful ; and in spasmodic asthma it often gives great 
relief. As an eliminative antidote in mercurial and saturnine 
poisoning its action has been already noticed. It has been 
recommended in hydrocephalus ; and has been found to exer- 
cise a beneficial operation in the treatment of aneurism. 

Administration. — Dose, gr. v-xv, or even more, three times 
a day, in solution. Very much larger doses may be required 
in tertiary syphilis. The compound syrup of sarsaparilla is 
one of the best vehicles to disguise its unpleasant taste. An 
ointment (5j with sodium hyposulphite gr. v to lard 5vij, with 
boiling water f 5ss) is employed for the same purposes as iodine 
ointment, and does not discolour the skin ; it is, however, of 
feebler efficacy. 

Ammonii Iodidum — Ammonium Iodide (NH 4 I) — is made 
by the double decomposition of potassium iodide and ammoni- 
um sulphate in hot aqueo-alcoholic solution. It occurs as a 
white, granular, very deliquescent salt, becoming yellowish- 
brown by exposure, very soluble in water and alcohol, of a 
taste like that of potassium iodide, but a little sharper. It has 



374 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

been used in the same way as the latter salt. Bartholow recom- 
mends it highly in catarrhal jaundice after the acute symptoms 
have subsided (gr. j-iij every two or three hours), and in the 
early stages of cirrhosis of the liver. It is also very useful in 
chronic bronchitis, capillary bronchitis and in pneumonia, to 
promote the absorption of the exudation and prevent it from 
undergoing caseous degeneration. 

Sodii Iodidum — Sodium Iodide (Nal) — may be made by 
the double decomposition of iron iodide and sodium carbonate. 
It is a soluble, white, crystalline salt, used to fulfill the same 
indications as potassium iodide, than which it is said to be better 
borne. 

IODOFORMUM — IODOFORM. 

Iodoform is obtained by the action of chlorinated lime upon 
a heated alcoholic solution of potassium iodide, which yields 
calcium iodate and iodoform, the latter being separated by 
the solvent action of boiling alcohol. It is formyl ter- 
odide (CHI 3 ), and occurs in the form of small scaly yellow 
crystals, having a saffron-like odour and sweet taste, insoluble 
in water, but soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform and the 
fixed and volatile oils. It is devoid of irritant action, and pro- 
duces the constitutional effects of iodine, besides an anodyne 
influence. Two hours after the internal administration of iodo- 
form, iodine is found in the urine. Large doses produce tetanic 
convulsions in animals. It has been used internally in syphi- 
litic rheumatism and various neuralgic affections, and Dr. Tho- 
mann has employed it with advantage suspended in glycerin 
as a hypodermic injection in recent syphilis with skin manifes- 
tations and lymphatic involvement. Dose, 1 to 3 grains three 
times a day, in pill. In the form of vapour it is said to pos- 
sess anaesthetic properties, but inferior to those of chloroform. 
Externally it acts as a powerful local anaesthetic, and has been 
found a good application to chancres and irritable ulcers, as bed 
sores ; it is used also to relieve the pain of cancerous sores, and 
for these purposes it may be dusted over the ulcerated surface, 



COD-LIVER OIL. 375 

which is then to be dressed with glycerin spread upon lint. A 
saturated solution of iodoform in chloroform is serviceable in 
relieving the pain of neuralgia and gout ; an iodoform supposi- 
tory is also useful in painful diseases of the rectum and blad- 
der. As an antiseptic, Mikulicz (Wiener Med. Worchenschrift, 
1881) found iodoform to be equal to carbolic acid, and less 
apt to produce constitutional disturbance from absorption. 
Poisoning, however, occurs in rare cases, with symptoms of a 
narcoto-irritant. As a dressing to open wounds he found it 
would check profuse discharge, prevent decomposition and 
stimulate healthy granulations. In treating deep wounds he 
recommends a pencil composed of iodoform 1 part with oil of 
theobroma 2 parts. The smell can be overcome by adding oil 
of bergamot TT[j to iodoform gr. x. In septic, gangrenous or 
sloughing wounds it forms an excellent dressing, and is very 
useful in chronic or irritable leg ulcers. In strumous disease 
it is almost a specific. The ointment consists of iodoform 10 
parts rubbed up with benzoinated lard 90 parts. 

OLEUM MORRHUiE — COD-LIVER OIL. 

This is a fixed oil obtained from the liver of Gadus 
morrhua, the common cod — a well-known fish of the northern 
Atlantic — and also from the livers of several other species of 
Gadus. It is prepared by subjecting the livers to heat, either 
in boilers with water or by means of steam externally applied, 
and afterwards draining off the liquid portion, from which the 
oil separates on standing. It is said to be sometimes procured 
also by expression. Three varieties are known, the white or 
pale-yellow, the brownish-yellow, and the dark-brown. They 
differ chiefly in the mode of preparation — the pale being pre- 
pared from fresh livers, the dark-brown from those' which are 
collected at sea and have undergone putrefactive decomposi- 
tion, and the brownish-yellow from those in which putrefaction 
has only partially commenced. The pale oil is the purest : 
the dark oil is the most offensive to the taste and smell, and 
the least acceptable to the stomach. 



376 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

Cod-liver oil is of the consistence of lamp-oil, and has a pe- 
culiar odour, resembling that of shoe-leather — which is usually 
prepared in the United States with this oil — and a fishy-acrid 
taste. These sensible properties are probably the best tests of 
the genuineness of the oil, and it should be rejected if the smell 
and taste of shoe-leather are wanting, or if those of lamp-oil or 
fish-oil are very perceptible. The sp. gr. of the best oil is 
about 0-920. The oil undergoes a gradual change from ex- 
posure to the air, and should therefore be kept in full and well- 
stoppered bottles. It is scarcely soluble in water, somewhat so 
in alcohol, readily soluble in ether, chloroform and glycerin. 
It contains a great variety of chemical constituents, the most 
important of which are fatty acids, several biliary 'principles, a 
peculiar brown substance called gaduin (which is not, however, 
supposed to be the active ingredient), iodine, chlorine and traces 
of bromine. 

Cod-liver oil may be distinguished from other oils by the 
agency of sulphuric acid, a drop of which, when added to fresh 
cod-liver oil, on a porcelain plate, causes a centrifugal move- 
ment in the oil, and gives rise to a fine violet colour^ soon 
passing into yellowish or brownish-red. This reaction is at- 
tributable, however, to the bile contained in the oil. By re- 
action with ammonia, in distillation, the peculiar volatile prin- 
ciple trimethylamia * (the odorous principle of pickled herring) 
is developed. 

Physiological Effects. — Cod-liver oil, like all fats, is appro- 
priated in the small intestine, and not in the stomach. Its 
prolonged use, in doses which allow it to be retained by the 

* Trimethylamia (C 3 H 9 N), made from herring pickle, is a colourless liquid, 
of a strong fishy odour and a disagreeable, acrid taste, freely soluble in 
alcohol, ether and water. It is a powerful irritant and even caustic. 
Taken internally, it depresses the action of the heart and temperature of 
the body, and is said to diminish the amount of urea excreted. It has been 
used with success in the treatment of acute rheumatism and gout, in the 
dose of 2 to 4 drops every two hours, in some aromatic water : overdoses 
will produce decided gastro-intestinal irritation. The chloride, which is a 
deliquescent salt, crystallizing in long needles, is less irritant and a better 
preparation ; dose, gr. ij-v every two or three hours. 



COD-LIVER OIL. 377 

digestive tube, produces very marked beneficial effects in a 
wide range of chronic diseases, dependent on a vitiated con- 
dition of the functions of digestion, assimilation and nutrition. 
Its modus medendi is not well understood, some therapeutists 
believing it to act merely as a nutritive agent, valuable from 
the readiness with which it is assimilated ; others attributing 
its curative powers to an alterative action from the iodine and 
bromine or other principles which it contains. Its effects are, 
however, probably due merely to its nutrient action, in sup- 
plying a sufficiency of molecular base for interstitial growth. 
The biliary principles which it contains promote its absorption 
and appropriation by the system. The most striking feature 
of its action on the economy is increase of weight ; and usually, 
where it fails to increase the weight, it is of little service. It 
is believed, also, to diminish the formation of uric acid in the 
system, and hence may be useful in gout. In large doses, 
cod-liver oil produces nausea and diarrhoea, and these effects 
occasionally follow the use of medicinal doses. 

Medicinal Uses. — Cod-liver oil has long been known as a 
remedy in rheumatic diseases ; and within the last forty years 
it has come into extensive use as an alterative in tuberculous 
and scrofulous affections. In the treatment of phthisis pul- 
monalis it is now looked upon, in Great Britain and the United 
States, as superior to any other agent, and as possessing an 
undoubted power of arresting the progress of both the general 
and the local symptoms of this disease. Although efficacious 
in all the stages of phthisis, its value is most conspicuous 
in the earlier stages, especially before the formation of true 
tubercles. Over the different forms of scrofula it exercises 
also a very decided control — particularly glandular enlarge- 
ments, ulcers, diseases of the joints and spine, ophthalmia, etc. 
In the various cutaneous affections, tertiary syphilis, chronic 
rheumatism and gout, and the entire circle of chronic disorders 
in which there is a tendency to marasmus, and where the 
nutrition is defective, cod-liver oil is employed with benefit. 
Its good effects are most conspicuous in proportion to the youth 
of the patient. 



378 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

Administration. — Dose, a tablespoonful two or three times a 
day ; though, if unacceptable to the stomach, it is best to begin 
with smaller, as teaspoonful doses. The addition of a little 
ether (as from 12 to 20 drops to a teaspoonful of oil) promotes 
its digestion. It must be persevered with for a long time 
before its good effects appear. It is best given in some aro- 
matic water, or a little ardent spirit, or the froth of porter ; 
and it may be rendered more agreeable to the stomach by 
combination with one of the mineral acids. The union of the 
oil with lime-water, just enough to form a soap, often renders 
it acceptable to delicate stomachs, and it may be flavoured 
with oil of bitter almond. If it produce diarrhoea, astringents 
should be administered with it. It is used as a clyster in 
cases of ascarides and lumbricoides ; and externally, in cuta- 
neous affections and opacity of the cornea. Phosphorated cod- 
liver oil is made by the direct addition of phosphorated oil 
(see p. 203) to the amount of cod-liver oil required to furnish 
the desired strength of phosphorus. 



ARSE Nil PR^EPARATA — -PREPARATIONS OF 
ARSENIC. 

Metallic arsenic is inert, though when swallowed it may 
prove powerfully poisonous by becoming oxidized and con- 
verted into arsenious acid. It is not used in medicine. 

Acidum Arseniosum [Arsenious Acid) (As 2 3 ), sometimes 
called ivliite arsenic, arsenic oxide or arsenic, is obtained prin- 
cipally as a secondary product in the roasting of cobalt ores 
(the cobalt arsenides) in Saxony and Bohemia. It is after- 
wards purified by sublimation ; and when recently prepared, 
occurs in glassy, colourless, transparent masses of a vitreous 
fracture, which gradually becomes white and opaque, progress- 
ively from the surface inwards. It is kept sometimes in the 
shops in the form of a fine white powder ; but in this state it is 
liable to adulteration with chalk or calcium sulphate, and it 
should therefore be always purchased in masses. It is entirely 
volatilized by heat, at a temperature not exceeding 400° ; has 



PREPARATIONS OF ARSEXIC. 379 

no smell and little or no taste; is soluble in water (more readily 
when transparent than opaque), and also in alcohol and oils. 
Cold water dissolves from y^j-g-th to ^-g^th part of its weight of 
arsenious acid, or about gr. ss to f §j. If boiled for a short time 
with water, about H V tQ P art ^^ De dissolved ; if boiled for an 
hour, J^-th part will be dissolved, or about gr. xij to f 5j. 

Tests. — Owing to the frequent use of arsenious acid as a 
poison, a knowledge of the means of detecting its presence is 
of great importance. In the solid state it may be recognized 
in the first place by its volatility (heated- over a spirit-lamp, it 
passes off as a white, inodorous vapour, and is deposited on a 
cool surface as an amorphous powder or in octahedral crystals) ; 
secondly, when thrown on burning charcoal it is deoxidized, 
and gives out the garlicky odour of metallic arsenic ; and 
thirdly, if heated in a glass tube with charcoal or black flux, it 
sublimes and condenses in the form of a brilliant steel-gray 
ring or mirror. In aqueous solution arsenious acid may be 
detected by the following reagents : sulphuretted hydrogen or 
ammonium sulphide produces a lemon or sulphur -yellow arsenic 
trisulphide, which may be distinguished from antimonial and 
stannic sulphides by being soluble in a solution of ammonium 
carbonate and insoluble in diluted hydrochloric acid ; the addi- 
tion first of ammonia and then of silver nitrate produces a 
canary-yellow silver arsenite ; and the addition of ammonia 
and then of cwpric sulphate produces an apple or grass-green 
cupric arsenite ; 100 grains boiled with diluted hydrochloric 
acid, and then treated with sulphuretted hydrogen, yield a de- 
posit of arsenic trisulphide weighing 124 grains. The arsenic 
trisulphide may be reduced and made to yield metallic arsenic, 
if heated with soda flux or potash flux. The most delicate test, 
however, of arsenious acid in solution is that of nascent hydro- 
gen, termed Marsh's test. When the acid is submitted to the 
action of nascent hydrogen (evolved by the action of diluted 
sulphuric acid on pure zinc), it is deoxidized, and unites with the . 
hydrogen to form arseniuretted hydrogen gas. This gas has a 
garlicky odour, and is recognized by its burning with a bluish- 
white flame which deposits on a plate of cold glass or porcelain, 



380 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

held over the jet, a lustrous steel-gray or brownish-black spot or 
mirror of metallic arsenic, surrounded by a faint white ring of 
arsenious acid ; the metallic spot deposited is distinguishable 
from antimony, obtained by a similar process, by the addition 
of a drop or two of fuming nitric acid, with heat, which dis- 
solves both metals, the solutions yielding on evaporation white 
residues, but the arsenical residue, touched with a drop of 
strong solution of silver nitrate, assumes a brick-red colour, 
while the antimonial residue remains unchanged ; and also the 
arsenic can be dissolved by a solution of sodium or calcium 
hypochlorite, which does not affect antimony. Another test is 
that of Reinsch, and consists in boiling a solution of the acid 
with hydrochloric acid and copper-foil or wire, when the latter 
acquires a steel-gray coating of metallic arsenic, passing as it 
increases into black. When arsenious acid is dissolved with 
liquid organic substances, it should first be separated from in- 
soluble matters by filtration, and the metallic arsenic may be 
then obtained by Reinsch' s 'process, and the liquid or sublim- 
ing tests afterwards applied. If the poison be mixed with solid 
organic substances, they should be cut up and boiled with "water 
acidulated with hydrochloric acid, and the solution afterwards 
filtered and again boiled, etc. 

Physiological Effects. — Arsenious acid acts locally as an 
escharotic by destroying the vitality of the parts to which it 
is applied. In medicinal doses it stimulates the digestive and 
nutritive functions, as is shown by the well-known results of 
arsenic-eating among the peasantry of Austria. Its physio- 
logical effects are not, at first, very obvious. When continued 
for some time, it generally produces more or less heat and dry- 
ness of the throat and stomach, with nausea, increased secre- 
tion from the bowels and kidneys, irritation of the conjunctival 
and nasal mucous membranes, and a peculiar swelling of the 
face termed oedema arsenicalis ; after the latter symptom ap- 
pears, the medicine should be suspended. No matter how 
administered, or by what channel it enters the system, arsenic- 
shows a marked selective affinity for the gastro-intestinal and 
mucous tracts. Small doses increase the cardiac action and 



PREPARATIONS OF ARSENIC. 3«1 

the activity of the capillary circulation ; large doses cause pal- 
pitation, small, quick and irregular pulse, with flushed face 
and cold extremities; poisonous doses depress the circulation 
and (in the lower animals) paralyze the heart in diastole. 
Arsenic, if too long continued or given in an excessive dose, 
decreases the number of globules in the blood, decomposes the 
haemoglobin and renders it less coagulable (Brodie, quoted by 
Phillips). Small doses stimulate, while larger doses depress, 
both the respiratory centre and the pulmonary end-organs of 
the pneumogastric. At first the urine is increased, but if the 
drug be continued it is diminished, and may be bloody or albu- 
minous. In too long -continued or too large medicinal doses. 
arsenious acid sometimes produces a sort of chronic poisoning, 
characterized by disorder of the digestive apparatus, conjunc- 
tivitis, oedema, salivation, a cutaneous eruption, loss of the 
hair and nails, paralysis, convulsions, and, if its use be perse- 
vered in, coma and delirium may result, terminating in death. 
In excessive doses arsenious acid is a violent poison, usually 
destroying life by gastro-enteritis, in from one to two or three 
days. When very large quantities are taken, it sometimes acts 
on the cerebro-spinal system, producing death by narcotism in 
a few hours. Occasionally gastroenteric and cerebro-spinal 
symptoms both occur. Two grains of arsenious acid have 
proved fatal, though much larger amounts have been taken 
with impunity ; very large quantities often cause emesis, which 
removes the poison from the stomach. 

Dissections in cases of poisoning from this agent reveal red- 
ness (sometimes accompanied with extravasations of blood), 
ulceration, softening, effusion of lymph, and even gangrene, 
in the alimentary canal. Congestions of the broncho-pulmo- 
nary mucous membrane and of the lungs themselves are often 
observed, and acute fatty degeneration of the liver, spleen, kid- 
neys, etc., is often seen, even when the poisoning has existed 
for a few hours only. The blood is often fluid and dark- 
coloured. The absorption of arsenious acid into the system, 
after its administration, is shown by its presence in the blood, 
viscera, bile, urine, etc., a few minutes after it has been taken. 



382 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

It is rapidly eliminated by the urine, and also by the bile, and 
even the skin, tears and saliva. After it has ceased to appear 
in the excretions, the administration of potassium iodide will 
cause it to reappear, showing that a part of it remains deposited 
in the tissues. Recently arsenic has been found to be deposited 
in the nervous system : thus, if in fresh muscle 1 part is found, 
the proportion in liver is 10*8 ; in brain, 36*5 ; in spinal cord, 
37*3 (ScolosubofF, Annales d'Hygiene, Jan. 1876, quoted by 
Phillips). 

Antidotes and Treatment in cases of Poisoning. — The evac- 
uation of the contents of the stomach by emetics or by the 
stomach-pump, if seen very soon after swallowing the poison, 
should be the first object in these cases. Demulcent drinks are 
to be also freely given. The hydrated oxide of iron should be 
administered, as soon as it can be procured, in the state of pulp 
or magma. It is prepared by the action of an alkaline solution 
on a ferric salt. Water of ammonia is directed by the U. S. 
Pharmacopoeia to be added to a solution of the tersulphate of 
iron (see p. 152). The hydrated oxide of iron is a soft, moist, 
reddish-brown magma, which acts as an antidote to arsenious 
acid by forming with it an insoluble, inert ferrous arseniate 
(Fe 3 2As0 4 ). The dose is about twelve times the supposed 
amount of poison taken, and it should be given in the fresh 
and pulpy state, as it gradually loses its antidotical virtues 
when kept. The hydrated oxide of iron with magnesia 
is also directed to be kept in the shops as an antidote to arsenic. 
It should be administered in the same manner as the hydrated 
oxide of iron, and possesses the advantage of a tendency to act 
on the bowels. The subcarbonate of iron also acts as an anti- 
dote, but this is much less powerful than the pulpy hydrate. 
Light magnesia (which has not been too strongly calcined) 
and freshly-precipitated gelatinous magnesia may be also used 
as antidotes. The after-treatment consists in the use of de- 
mulcents, opiates, and, if necessary, stimulants. 

Medicinal Uses. — Arsenious acid is a very valuable alter- 
ative remedy, but it must be exhibited with caution. It is em- 
ployed with the greatest success in the treatment of miasmatic 



PREPARATIONS OF ARSENIC. 383 

affections, as intermittent fevers, especially such as have resisted 
the use of cinchona, or have frequently reappeared; in chronic 
cutaneous affections, particularly the scaly diseases (lepra, 
eczema squamosum, psoriasis and pityriasis), but it should 
not be given while any acute inflammatory symptoms are pres- 
ent, or where there is much itching, burning or heat of skin, as 
under these circumstances it is apt to increase the affection. It 
is used also in certain affections of the nervous system, chorea in 
particular, over which it exercises a marked control ; in chronic 
rheumatism, in phthisis, in the tertiary forms of syphilis, in 
irritable dyspepsia, gastric ulcer, diarrhoea, bronchitis, and as 
a tonic generally. As an external application, arsenious acid 
has been applied to indolent sinuses, lupus, onychia maligna, 
etc., either pure or mixed with several parts of sulphur; its 
use is, however, attended with danger of constitutional effects. 
It is an ingredient of various empirical compounds employed 
in the treatment of cancer. 

Administration. — Dose, gr. y 1 ^ to yV, in pills with bread- 
crumb, three times a day, to be reduced when conjunctivitis 
appears, and suspended after the establishment of the oedema 
arsenicalis ; and after being taken a fortnight, it should always 
be intermitted for a day or two. It is less apt to occasion gas- 
tric irritability when given immediately after a meal. The 
usual and safer form of exhibiting this remedy is that of solu- 
tion with potash. 

Liquor Potassii Arsenitis (Solution of Potassium Ar- 
senite), or Fowler s Solution. This is prepared by boiling 1 
part of arsenious acid and potassium bicarbonate, each, in 10 
parts of distilled water, 3 parts of compound spirit of lavender, 
and afterwards water enough to make the solution weigh 100 
parts. It is a transparent liquid, of an alkaline reaction, and 
has the colour, taste and smell of spirit of lavender. It is a 
solution of the potassium arsenite (HK 2 As0 3 ), and is decom- 
posed by the reagents which act upon arsenic, and is incom- 
patible with infusions and decoctions of cinchona. Its effects 
and uses are analogous to those of arsenious acid, though some 
practitioners have denied their therapeutic identity. The treat- 



384 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. . 

went in acute poisoning is the same as that for arsenious acid. 
Dose, gtt. v to gtt. x, and even gtt. xx, three times a day. 
Each fluidrachm contains arsenious acid gr. -f^. 

Sodii Arsenias (Sodium Arseniate) is made by melting 
together arsenious acid, sodium nitrate and sodium carbonate, 
then dissolving the fused salt in boiling water, and afterwards 
crystallizing. In this process the arsenious acid is oxidized 
into arsenic acid by the nitric acid of the sodium nitrate, and 
then combines with the soda of both salts to form colourless 
transparent prismatic crystals (Na 2 HAs0 4 ,7H 2 0), slightly 
efflorescent, very soluble in water, of a somewhat saline, slightly 
acrimonious taste. This salt is employed to fulfill the thera- 
peutic indications of the other arsenical preparations, and has 
the advantage of a somewhat milder local action. Dose, gr. 
y S -J. It is prescribed sometimes externally in the form of 
baths, in chronic nodose rheumatism and gout, 5ss-3ij or 5iij 
in each bath. It is generally used internally in the form of 

Liquor Sodii Arseniatis (Solution of Sodium Arseniate), 
made by dissolving 1 part of sodium arseniate (rendered an- 
hydrous at a heat not exceeding 300°) in 100 parts of distilled 
water; dose, gtt. x-xx. Cigarettes made of paper saturated 
with a solution, two or three times the officinal strength, are 
smoked in asthma. 

Liquor Acidi Arseniosi (Solution of Arsenious Acid) 
(formerly called solution of arsenic chloride) (AsCl 3 ) is made 
by boiling 1 part of arsenious acid with 2 parts of muriatic acid 
and 25 parts of distilled water, until the acid is dissolved, and 
adding to the solution, when cold, water enough to make it 
weigh 100 parts. Dose, the same as that of Fowler's Solu- 
tion, than which it is thought to be less apt to disturb the 
stomach. 

Arsenii Iodidum (Arsenic Iodide) (Asl 3 ), made by 
rubbing 5 parts of iodine and 1 part of arsenic together, is 
an orange-red crystalline, volatilizable solid, wholly soluble 
in water, and has been used both internally and externally in 
skin diseases. Dose, gr. \ three times a day ; for external 
use, gr. iij to lard 5J. 



DILUTED PHOSPHORIC ACID. 385 

Liquor Arsenii et Hydrargyri Iodidi [Solution of Ar- 
senic arid Mercuric Iodide). This solution, known as Dono- 
van s Solution, is prepared by dissolving 1 part of arsenic 
iodide and mercuric iodide, each, in enough distilled water to 
make the solution weigh 100 parts. It is merely an aqueous 
solution of the two iodides (Asl 3 and Hgl 2 ). It has a pale- 
yellow colour, a slightly styptic taste, and is incompatible with 
the salts of morphia. 

Effects and Uses. — This is a highly valuable alterative prep- 
aration in the various forms of papular and scaly cutaneous 
affections and in obstinate syphilis. It was introduced by Mr. 
Donovan, of Dublin, in 1839, and has been a good deal em- 
ployed in the United States. Dose, gtt. v to gtt. xx or more 
three times a day. 

ACIDUM PHOSPHORICUM DILUTUM — DILUTED PHOS- 
PHORIC ACID. 

The diluted acid is the only form in which phosphoric acid 
is employed internally. It is prepared by adding 20 parts of 
phosphoric acid (previously prepared by boiling phosphorus in 
nitric acid and water and driving off the nitrous compounds by 
heat, and contains 50 per cent, each of orthophosphoric acid 
(H 3 P0 4 ) and distilled water), to 80 parts of distilled water. It 
is a colourless, syrupy liquid, without smell, but having a sour 
taste, and contains 10 per cent, of orthophosphoric acid. 

Effects and Uses. — In its effects diluted phosphoric acid re- 
sembles the mineral acids (vide p. 168, et seq.), especially sul- 
phuric acid, but is less irritant to the stomach. Moderate doses 
stimulate the circulation and improve digestion, while large 
doses depress the circulation and are capable of causing gastro- 
enteritis. It has been used as a tonic and alterative in scrofu- 
lous affections and rachitis, but in the latter disease the 
phosphates are justly preferred. It may be used in dyspepsia. 
It is an excellent adjuvant to cough mixtures. As it contains 
no free phosphorus, it should not be given to produce the 
medicinal effects of that drug (Farquharson). Dose, TTLx-xxx, 
diluted. 

25 



386 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

GALCII PHOSPHAS P R JECI P IT AT U S — PRECIPITATED 
CALCIUM PHOSPHATE. 

This salt is made by reacting upon bone-ash with hydro- 
chloric acid, which dissolves the calcium phosphate in the 
bones, and gives it up again on the addition of water of am- 
monia. It is a white, inodorous, tasteless, insoluble powder, 
sometimes called the bone phosphate of calcium (Ca 3 2P0 4 ). It 
is an important and valuable medicine, not only in diseases of 
deficient ossification, as ununited fractures, caries of the bones, 
rickets, etc., but in all conditions of defective cell-growth and 
malnutrition, from its undoubted influence in promoting 
natural cell-growth and nutrition. Thus it is employed (often 
in connection with other phosphates, as those of iron, sodium 
and potassium) in scrofula, phthisis, anaemia, diarrhoea, chronic 
bronchitis, abscesses, and wasting diseases of every kind. On 
account of its insolubility it is apt to form intestinal concre- 
tions. Dose, 5 to 10 grains, and it may be well given dusted 
into a little milk. A better (because more soluble) preparation 
is the syrup of calcium lacto-phosphate (syrupus calcii 
lacto-phosphatis), containing lactic acid, calcium phosphate, 
orange-flower water, sugar, hydrochloric acid, ammonia water 
and water. An emulsion containing 50 per cent, of cod-liver 
oil with syrup of lacto-phosphate is an excellent preparation ; 
dose, a teaspoonful to a tablespoonful. 

CALCII HYPOPHOSPHIS — CALCIUM H YP PHO SPHITE. 

This salt is prepared by boiling phosphorus in a mixture of 
calcium hydrate in boiling water; phosphoretted hydrogen 
escapes, and calcium phosphate and hypophosphite are formed 
in the liquid, from which the insoluble phosphate and resid- 
uary lime are separated by filtration, and the hypophosphite 
(CaH 4 2P0 2 ) is afterwards crystallized out in the form of white, 
pearly crystals, of a nauseous, bitter taste, soluble in 6 parts 
of water, and insoluble in alcohol. All the soluble sulphates 
and carbonates produce precipitates with this salt. 



calcium hypophosphite. 387 

Potassii Hypophosphis — Potassium Hypophosphite 
(KH 2 P0 2 ) — is prepared by mixing solutions of calcium hypo- 
phosphite and potassium carbonate. It occurs in white, 
opaque, confused crystalline masses, having a disagreeable, 
bitter taste, very deliquescent and very soluble in water and 
alcohol, but insoluble in ether. 

Sodii Hypophosphis — Sodium Hypophosphite (NaH 2 P0 2 
H 2 0)— is prepared by mixing solutions of calcium hypophosphite 
and crystallized sodium carbonate, and crystallizes in white 
tables of a pearly lustre, very deliquescent (but less so than 
potassium hypophosphite), very soluble in water and alcohol, 
and insoluble in ether. 

The hypophosphites have been lately introduced in the treat- 
ment of phthisis under an impression that they prove useful by 
furnishing phosphorus to the tissues. They more probably act 
by stimulating cell-growth and nutrition, and may be given to 
fulfill the same indications as the precipitated calcium phosphate. 
The soluble salts of mercury and silver are incompatible with 
them. Dose, 10 to 30 grains three times a clay. The calcium 
hypophosphite is the most eligible salt, but they are often 
given together in the form of syrup. 

Syrupus Hypophosphitum — Syrup of Hypophosphites — 
consists of calcium hypophosphite 35 parts, sodium and potas- 
sium hypophosphites each 12 parts, dissolved in water by the 
aid of citric acid 1 part, and flavoured with spirit of lemon 2 
parts and sugar 500 parts ; the whole to weigh 1000 parts. It 
is a good preparation to fulfill the indications of the hypophos- 
phites. Dose, f 5j-ij. 

Syrupus Hypophosphitum cum Ferro — Syrup of Hypo- 
phosphites with Iron — contains ferrous lactate 1 part, dis- 
solved in syrup of hypophosphites 100 parts. It is used for 
the same purposes and in the same doses as the last prep- 
aration. Ferric hypophosphite was noticed with c'l 
(see p. 157). 



388 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

CALCII CHLORIDUM — CALCIUM CHLORIDE. 

This salt (CaC0 2 ) is prepared by neutralizing hydrochloric 
acid with chalk or white marble, and adding a little chlorinated 
lime and slacked lime. It is a colourless, translucent salt, very 
deliquescent, readily soluble in both water and alcohol. It 
should not be confounded with chlorinated lime, which is also 
sometimes called "chloride of calcium." It resembles the cal- 
cium preparations generally in its effects, and is highly recom- 
mended in all strumous affections of children, as glandular 
enlargements, colliquative diarrhoea, etc. It is also given 
with benefit in wasting diseases generally and in consumption. 
Dose, gr. v-xx. 

AMMONII CHLORIDUM — AMMONIUM CHLORIDE. 

This salt, formerly termed muriate of ammonia, and often 
known as sal ammoniac, is obtained from the gas-liquor of coal 
gas works (usually by neutralizing the ammonia with hydro- 
chloric acid), and also in the preparation of animal charcoal 
from bones. It is brought in the crude state from Calcutta, 
for use in the arts, and in the refined state, for medicinal 
employment, from England. It occurs in white, translucent, 
tough, fibrous, hemispherical, convex-concave cakes (NH 4 C1), 
about two inches thick, difficult to powder, inodorous, of a pun- 
gent, saline taste, slightly deliquescent, very soluble in water, 
and less so in alcohol. 

For medicinal use it is purified by the addition of water of 
ammonia to a solution of chloride, and occurs as a snow-white 
crystalline powder, soluble in 2J parts of cold and in its own 
weight of boiling water, and soluble also in alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — The physiological effects of the ammo- 
nium salts have been considered under the head of Ammonia 
Preparations (vide p. 199). The local action of ammonium 
chloride is that of an irritant. In large doses it purges. In 
small doses, after absorption, it proves a powerful resolvent 
alterative, diminishing the solid constituents of the blood, with 



AMMONIUM PHOSPHATE. 389 

an increased flow of the secretions generally; it has an especial 
action upon the mucous membranes, promoting nutritive changes 
and epithelial exfoliation. Under its use the solids of the urine 
are increased, except uric acid, which is slightly diminished. 
Even in very large amounts it is not considered poisonous. It 
is not much employed in Great Britain or the United States, 
but is extensively used in Germany as a refrigerant in 
mild fevers attended with stoppage of the secretions ; as a 
resolvent in organic enlargements ; in amenorrhoea, and in 
catarrhs, urethritis, etc. It is also used in bronchitis and 
pneumonia as an expectorant. Of late this salt has been used 
with advantage in muscular rheumatism and in neuralgia ; and 
its resolvent powers are highly spoken of in fibroid tumours of 
the uterus. It has been highly recommended in torpidity of 
the liver, chronic hepatitis, etc., but according to experiments 
by Rutherford and Vignal it does not increase the secretion of 
bile, although they found it stimulated the intestinal glands. 
Dose, gr. v-xxx every two or three hours, in powder or mu- 
cilaginous solution. Externally it is used in solution (imme- 
diately upon being dissolved) as a refrigerant lotion (§i to half 
a pint of water), in cutaneous affections and indolent ulcers 
(5i to half a pint of water), and also as a discutient and vul- 
nerary. Troches of ammonium chloride each contain ammo- 
nium chloride gr. ij with sugar, tragacanth and syrup of tolu. 

AM MO Nil PHOSPHAS — AMMONIUM PHOSPHATE. 

This salt enjoys considerable reputation as an alterative. It 
is made by adding stronger water of ammonia to diluted phos- 
phoric acid, evaporating and crystallizing ([NH 4 ] 2 HP0 5 ). 
It occurs in transparent, colourless crystals, having the form of 
six-sided tables, of an alkaline, somewhat saline taste, soluble 
in water, and insoluble in alcohol. As usually found in the 
shops it is a mixture of the neutral and of the acid ammonium 
phosphate. 

Effects and Uses. — It has been used in this country as a 
remedy in gout and rheumatism, and is highly esteemed. In 



390 MATERIA MEDICA — ALTERATIVES. 

combination with ammonium carbonate and aromatic spirit of 
ammonia, it has been also used with advantage in diabetes. 
Dose, gr. x-xl three or four times a day, dissolved in an aro- 
matic water. 



POTASSII CHLORAS — POTASSIUM CHLORATE. 

This salt is prepared by various processes : a good one is by 
reacting upon solution of caustic potassa, mixed with lime, with 
a stream of chlorine ; the chlorine is converted into chloric 
acid by oxygen from the lime, and the acid combines with the 
potassium to form potassium chlorate (KC10 3 ). It is a white, 
anhydrous salt, crystallizing in rhomboidal plates of a pearly 
lustre, and is inodorous, and of a cool, saline taste. It is but 
little changed by exposure to the air ; is soluble in 16 parts of 
cold water or 2 parts of boiling water. It is said to be solu- 
ble in all the animal fluids without decomposing them or under- 
going change itself. 

Effects and 'Uses. — In its effects potassium chlorate resem- 
bles the other potassium salts (vide p. 233), especially the nitrate. 
Potassium chlorate, when taken internally for some time, 
gives a bright arterial tinge to the venous blood, reduces the 
volume and frequency of the pulse, and largely increases the 
secretion of urine, by which it passes out of the system un- 
changed. It has been pointed out by Dr. Jacobi that when 
given for some time this salt produces irritation of the kidneys 
and finally chronic tubal nephritis. The appetite is improved 
under its use, and salivation is an occasional effect. Large 
doses may be taken with impunity, but excessive quantities 
are said to have produced fatal gastro-enteric imflammation. 
Fatal cases of poisoning from this salt have been reported, ap- 
parently from blood poisoning, the heart and large vessels 
having been found filled with coagula. As it contains a large 
supply of oxygen, it was at first employed with a view to its 
oxidizing influence in contaminated conditions of the blood, as 
in malignant fevers, syphilis, etc. ; and whatever the modus 
medendi, it is still considered a valuable alterative in typhus, 



POTASSIUM BICHROMATE. 391 

scarlatina, etc. Probably its most positive remedial effects 
are seen in various forms of stomatitis, follicular, mercurial 
and gangrenous. It is used also in diphtheria, croup, cyanosis, 
asthma and even neuralgia. Externally, in solution, it is an 
admirable wash or gargle in stomatitis, ozoena, the sore throat 
of scarlatina, subacute and chronic pharyngitis, diphtheria, and 
fetid, ulcerated surfaces generally ; mixed with sugar, the 
powder is an excellent application in the aphthous sore mouth 
of children. Dose, internally, fifteen to thirty grains every 
three or four hours, in some pleasant vehicle. Troches of po- 
tassium chlorate (trochisci potassii chloratis) are made by rub- 
bing together potassium chlorate, sugar, tragacanth, spirit of 
lemon and with water forming a mass ; each troche contains 5 
grains of potassium chlorate. For external use, 5y-iv may be 
dissolved in half a pint of water. 

POTASSII BICHROMAS — POTASSIUM BICHROMATE. 

The chief ore from which salts containing chromium are 
obtained is chrome ironstone, found in Sweden and in south- 
eastern Pennsylvania. By roasting the powdered ore with 
potassium carbonate and nitre, the (yellow) potassium chromate 
is obtained, and by acidulating a solution of this with sul- 
phuric acid, the (red) bichromate is formed (K 2 Cr 2 7 ) ; it sep- 
arates in orange-red, anhydrous, tabular crystals, soluble in 
water, insoluble in alcohol, and of a cooling, bitter taste. 

Effects and Uses. — It is an irritant caustic, acting in over- 
doses as a corrosive poison, for which the proper antidotes are 
magnesia, soap and the alkaline carbonates. In small doses 
it is alterative, and has been used in syphilis with encouraging- 
results. In large doses it is emetic. Externally it is a good 
application, in powder or in saturated solution, to syphilitic 
warts, excrescences, etc. Dose, as an alterative, gr. J daily, 
in pill, with some bitter extract ; as an emetic, gr. j. 



392 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTACIDS. 

ORDER III. — ANTACIDS. 

Antacids are medicinal agents employed to neutralize acids 
in the blood, primse vise and secretions. The alkalies and 
alkaline earths and their carbonates are the substances in- 
cluded in this division. The alkalies, in the concentrated state, 
destroy organization and act as corrosive poisons ; they are 
administered internally only in a state of extreme dilution. 
The alkaline carbonates produce a less intense chemical action 
on the tissues than the alkalies ; and the bicarbonates are less 
active than the monocarbonates. The alkaline earths, par- 
ticularly magnesia, are less energetic in their local action than 
the alkalies proper ; and their carbonates manifest little or no- 
chemical influence upon the tissues. 

When swallowed in a state of dilution, the alkaline prepara- 
tions combine with the free acids which they encounter in the 
stomach. The salts which are thus formed, unless carried off 
by the bowels, are absorbed into the blood, and are thrown out 
by the secretions, especially by the kidneys. It must be re- 
membered that, as already stated (vide p. 233), alkalies in- 
crease acid and diminish alkaline secretions, when in contact 
with the orifices of the glands which secrete them. In like 
manner, acids increase alkaline and diminish acid secretions 
(Ringer) (vide p. 238). While in the intestines, besides neu- 
tralizing acids, the alkalies also promote the digestion and 
absorption of fatty substances, by forming with them an emul- 
sion. After absorption they exert a liquefacient action on the 
blood, and render the urine alkaline. Their long-continued 
use disorders the functions of digestion and nutrition, produces 
a chronic deterioration of the blood, and sets up a cachectic 
condition somewhat analogous to scurvy. 

In the concentrated form the alkalies are employed as es- 
eharotics. The various alkaline preparations are administered, 
internally ', in the diluted form — 1. As antacids, in dyspepsia 
accompanied with excess of acid in the primae vise, and they 
are probably also of advantage in dyspeptic cases, by pro- 
moting the digestion of fatty matters. As dyspepsia with 



ANTACIDS. 393 

acidity probably depends frequently on fermentation of the 
ingesta, due to deficient secretion of acid gastric juice, the 
administration of alkalies would prove of advantage, not by 
neutralizing the acid in the stomach, but by correcting the 
deficiency of the secretion on which the dyspepsia depends (H. 
M.). If the condition, on the other hand, depends on a profuse 
secretion of acid, then the administration of alkalies can do 
nothing more than palliate, by neutralizing, the excessive acid- 
ity. When alkalies are given before meals, they will increase 
the acid secretion of the gastric mucous membrane ; given after 
meals they neutralize the excess of acid. Acids given before 
meals decrease the amount of acid secreted by the stomach : 
while, if given after meals, they will supply the place of the 
acid of the gastric juice, should there be a deficiency in that 
secretion. The vegetable tonics and aromatics are frequently 
combined with antacids, very advantageously, in the treatment 
of dyspepsia. 2. To relieve irritability of the stomach and 
check vomiting. 3. As antidotes in cases of poisoning from 
acids. 4. As antilithics, to neutralize lithic acid when it is 
separated in undue quantity by the urine ; and also as lith- 
ontriptics, or solvents of calculi, especially lithates. They are 
improper when there is a tendency to the deposition of phos- 
phates ; and in treating cases of uric acid deposit it is un- 
necessary to render the urine more than neutral, as, if it be 
made alkaline, the phosphates formed may be deposited round 
the uric acid calculi. 5. In the treatment of acute rheumatism 
and gout, where they act by neutralizing the excess of acid 
with which the blood is charged in these diseases. 6. To re- 
lieve irritability of the urinary organs — ardor urinse in gonor- 
rhoea — cutaneous irritation — uterine irritation — pruritus ani, 
etc. — especially when these conditions of irritability are depend- 
ent, as is often the case, on excess of acid in the system. 7. As 
diuretics (see p. 319). 8. As antiplastics and resolvents, in in- 
flammation. And, 9. By many therapeutists, in diabetes mellitus. 
The antacid preparations should be administered in a state 
of large dilution, with a view to facilitate their absorption, and 
to prevent an irritant and purgative action on the bowels. 



394 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTACIDS. 

POTASSII PRil PAR AT A — POTASSIUM PREPARATIONS. 

The preparations of potassium employed as antacids are the 
Solution of Potassa, Potassium Carbonate and Pota^ iurri Bi- 
carbonate. 

The general effects of the potassium preparations are those 
previously described (vide p. 233). They increase both the 
solid and watery portions of the urine, and in large doses ren- 
der it alkaline. Under their use, however, the uric acid, either 
free or combined, is greatly diminished, and, it is asserted, is 
converted into oxaluric acid, which is metamorphosed into 
oxalic acid and urea. 

Liquor Potassa (Solution of Potassa) is prepared by the 
action of lime on a solution of potassium bicarbonate; the lime 
abstracts carbonic acid from the bicarbonate, and precipitates 
as calcium carbonate, leaving the potassium hydrate in solu- 
tion ; or it may be made, more directly, by dissolving potassa, 
56 parts, in distilled water, 944 parts. Solution of potassa is 
a limpid, colourless liquid, without smell, of a very acrid, caus- 
tic taste, an alkaline reaction, and imparts a soapy feeling to 
the fingers when rubbed with it; sp.gr. 1*036; it contains 
5 per cent, of potassium hydrate (KHO). 

Effects and Uses. — The antacid, diuretic, antilithic and re- 
solvent properties and indications of this preparation have been 
described above. It is more irritant to the stomach than the 
potassium carbonates, and is therefore less eligible for pro- 
tracted use. In excessive quantity it may act as an irritant 
and corrosive poison ; oils and vegetable acids should be ad- 
ministered as antidotes. Dose, gtt. x-xx, largely diluted with 
sweetened water or mucilage. Externally it is used in a 
diluted state as a stimulant lotion. 

Potassii Carbonas (Potassium Carbonate — Potassii Car- 
bonas Pura, U. S. P. 1870, commonly called Salt of Tartar). 
This salt is prepared by calcining potassium bicarbonate, which 
is thus deprived of a molecule of carbonic acid and reduced to 
the state of carbonate (2KHC03=H 2 C0 3 +K 2 C0 3 ). Potas- 
sium carbonate occurs in the form of a white, coarse, granular 



SODIUM PREPARATIONS. 395 

powder, cf a nauseous, alkaline taste and an alkaline reac- 
tion, veiy soluble in water, but insoluble in alcohol. It is 
very delitescent, forming, if long exposed to the air, an oily 
liquid wiv-h. the water which it attracts. Acids, acidulous salts 
and nauj other substances are incompatible with it. It is 
employed as an antacid, antiplastic, diuretic, antilithic, etc.. 
in the dose of gr. x-xx, in some sweetened aromatic water. 
It h'as been found specially useful in torpor of the liver and 
in whooping-cough. In large quantities it acts as a corrosive 
poison, for which oils and vegetable acids are the antidotes. 

Potassii Bicarbonas (Potassium Bicarbonate) is made by 
passing carbonic acid through an aqueous solution of purified 
pearlash (a more or less impure potassium carbonate), obtained 
from wood-ashes by lixiviation, and somewhat purified by 
solution in water, filtration and evaporation, till it is fully 
saturated. It occurs in transparent, colourless crystals, having 
the shape of irregular eight-sided prisms with two-sided summits 
(KHCO3). They are inodorous, of a slightly alkaline taste, 
permanent in the air, soluble in water and insoluble in alcohol. 
The effects and uses of this salt are the same as those of the 
carbonate, but it is pleasanter in taste and less irritant to the 
stomach. It is much used in gout and uric acid lithiasis. 
Dose, 3j to 5j- It is a good remedy in acute rheumatism, in 
which as much as an ounce to an ounce and a half may be 
given during the day, with opium to relieve pain. 

SODII PR^PARATA — SODIUM PREPARATIONS. 

The sodium preparations are analogous in effects to those of 
potassium. Being less irritant and less depressing, they are 
better anti-dyspeptics, and for the relief of acidity of the 
primse vise. They are inferior in gout and uric acid lithiasis, 
as they are less powerful solvents of this acid. Their elimi- 
native action as diuretics is also more feeble. 

LiQUOfi Sod^: [Solution of Soda) is prepared by the action 
of lime on a solution of sodium carbonate. It is a colourless 
liquid, having an extremely acrid taste and a strong alkaline 



896 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTACIDS. 

reaction. It has sp. gr. 1*059, and contains 5 per cent, of 
sodium hydrate (NaHO). The dose and administration are 
the same as those of liquor potassse. 

The preparations of sodium generally employed as antacids 
are the carbonates. # There are several sources of carbonated 
sodium. The native carbonate (called natron) is found in 
Egypt, Hungary and other countries. Impure soda, obtained 
from the ashes of marine plants, is termed barilla or help — 
barilla when it is derived from phenogamous plants growing 
near the sea, and kelp when procured from cryptogamic plants 
growing in the sea. Sodium carbonate is now, however, chiefly 
made by artificial means from sodium sulphate, which is 
obtained in part from the manufacturers of chlorinated lime, 
but principally by the action of sulphuric acid on sodium 
chloride. The sodium sulphate is fused with ground limestone 
and coal, and forms a black mass called British barilla, which 
contains a mixture of sodium carbonate and calcium sulphide — 
Na 2 S0 4 +C 4 +CaC0 3 =CaS+Na 2 C0 8 +4CO. It is afterwards 
purified by lixiviation, calcination and other processes. Within 
a few years past, caustic soda and the carbonates and other 
sodium salts have been manufactured near Pittsburgh, in 
Pennsylvania, from cryolite (a sodium and aluminium fluoride) 
(3NaF,AlF 3 ), which is found in an immense deposit in Green- 
land, and largely imported into Philadelphia. Cryolite con- 
tains about 35 per cent, of soda, which is separated from it by 
mixing it with lime and subjecting it to heat, when it is decom- 
posed into insoluble calcium fluoride and soluble sodium alumi- 
nate, with a little sodium carbonate and hydrate, all of which 
are separated from the fluoride by lixiviation with hot water, 
carbonic acid being afterwards passed through the solution to 
form sodium carbonate, the alumina being deposited. Another 
new and cheap process of manufacturing soda has been lately 
introduced, termed the ammonia process, in which sodium 
chloride is converted directly into sodium carbonate by the use 
of ammonium carbonate ; the ammonium chloride farmed is 
decomposed by calcium hydrate, and the ammonia is again 
converted into carbonate by the excess of carbonic acid, 



SODIUM PREPARATIONS. 397 

obtained by heating the sodium carbonate. Recently, too, 
sodium carbonate has been found in large amount in a lake 
in Nevada. 

Sodii Carbon as [Sodium Carbonate) crystallizes in large 
oblique, rhombic prisms (Na 2 C0 3 ), which are transparent, very 
efflorescent, of an alkaline, disagreeable taste, soluble in water 
but insoluble in alcohol. When heated they undergo the 
watery fusion and part with their water of crystallization, 
which is entirely expelled at a red heat. Perfect crystals have 
ten equivalents of water of crystallization. It is apt to con- 
tain sodium sulphate and common salt as impurities. Acids, 
acidulous salts, lime-solution, earthy and metallic salts, etc., 
are incompatible with sodium carbonate. 

Effects and Uses. — Sodium carbonate is less irritant and 
has a milder and more agreeable taste than potassium carbonate. 
Its effects are otherwise similar, and it is administered in the 
same cases. In overdoses it is a corrosive poison, for which oils 
and acids are the antidotes. Dose, gr. x to 5ss in powder, or 
dissolved in some bitter infusion. Owing to the variable quan- 
tity of water of crystallization which it contains, as kept in 
shops, it is best given in the dined state. 

Sodii Carbonas Exsiccatus (Dried Sodium Carbonate). — 
This salt is deprived of its water of crystallization by heat, and 
occurs in the form of a white powder. Dose, gr. v-xv in pill, 
made with soap and aromatics. 

Sodii Bicarbonas (Sodium Bicarbonate) is prepared by 
saturating the carbonate with carbonic acid. In the process 
followed in this country the water contained in the carbonate, 
which is liberated during the process 'of its saturation, is 
drained off. Thus obtained, the crystals have the form of the 
carbonate, retaining only one equivalent of water, but are 
opaque and porous. They occur usually in granular masses, 
or in the form of a white, opaque powder, which contains vari- 
able amounts of soda not fully saturated with carbonic acid, 
and is known as sodii bicarbonas venalis (commercial so- 
dium bicarbonate). This is purified for medicinal use by per- 
colation with distilled water, and the purified salt occurs as a 



398 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTACIDS. 

snow-white powder, soluble in 13 parts of water, of a mild, 
slightly alkaline taste. It is a permanent salt (NaHC0 3 ). By 
exposure to heat it gradually parts with its carbonic acid, and 
at a red heat is converted into the anhydrous carbonate. 

The effects and uses of this salt are the same as those of the 
carbonate, but it is less irritant and of more agreeable taste. 
It has been used as a liquefacient in infantile croup in the dose 
of gr. j every five minutes, to promote the expulsion of false 
membrane. Dose, for an adult, gr. x to 5ss, which may be pleas- 
antly taken is carbonic acid water, or made into lozenges with 
sugar and mucilage of tragacanth. Sodium bicarbonate is an 
ingredient of Seidlitz powders (see p. 287). Troches of sodi- 
um bicarbonate are made by mixing sodium bicarbonate with 
sugar and nutmeg, and making a mass with mucilage of traga- 
canth, each troche containing 3 grains of bicarbonate. Sodium 
bicarbonate may be sprinkled with advantage over burns and 
scalds ; equal parts of it and common salt make a good appli- 
cation to the bites of bees, hornets, spiders, etc. 

LITHII PR.EPARATA — LITHIUM PREPARATIONS. 

Lithia is found in several minerals, as lepidolite, etc., but in 
minute amount. It is extracted chiefly by the agency of sul- 
phuric acid,; the sulphate is converted into a chloride by a 
solution of barium chloride, and from the chloride, the car- 
bonate (lithii carbonas) (Li 2 C0 3 ) is prepared by the addition 
of ammonium carbonate. It is a white powder, of a mild alka- 
line taste, soluble in 100 parts of water, more soluble in car- 
bonic acid water, ancl insoluble in alcohol. 

The lithium salts act on the system in a similar manner to 
the other alkalies. They are said to render the urine more 
alkaline than do the other members of this group. Lithium 
carbonate is a very valuable antacid in gout and rheumatism, 
from the fact of its low combining number and the great solu- 
bility of the lithium urate, thus enabling the carbonate to act 
powerfully in eliminating uric acid from the system. It prob- 
ably also diminishes the formation of uric acid, and the author 



MAGNESIUM PREPARATIONS. 399 

has found it highly efficacious in the cure of gout. It is a 
good diuretic. Dose, 4 to 5 grains two or three times daily, 
largely diluted, and best given in carbonic acid water. 

Lithii Citras (Lithium Citrate) (Li 3 C 6 H 5 7 ), a deliquescent 
white powder, soluble in 25 parts of water, is made by adding 
a solution of citric acid to the lithium carbonate. It is con- 
verted into a carbonate in the system, and is, therefore, 
possessed of the same properties, but is more refrigerant. 
Strong solutions of lithium salts have been found useful exter- 
nally in removing gouty enlargements. 

Lithii Benzoas (Lithium Benzoate) (LiC 7 H 5 2 ) is prepared 
by the gradual addition of benzoic acid to a heated watery 
solution of the carbonate, and evaporating. It may be ob- 
tained in the form of glistening pearly scales, of a soapy feel 
and a cool, sweetish taste, soluble in three and a half parts of 
water at 60°. The ready solubility of this salt and its free- 
dom from deliquescence, and the benzoic acid which it contains 
in combination, give it especial value in the treatment of the 
various forms of disease dependent upon uric acid deposits. 
Dose, 3 to 5 grains repeated. 

AMMONII PR.EPARATA — AMMONIUM PREPARATIONS. 

The preparations of ammonium (previously noticed under 
the head of Stimulants, p. 199) are administered as antacids, 
in cases in which a stimulant action is not objectionable. 
Spiritus ammonia? aromaticus (aromatic spirit of ammonia) 
is the preparation usually employed, and is an excellent ant- 
acid carminative in heartburn attended with flatulence, nausea 
with syncope, etc. Dose, gtt. xxx-f 5j- 

M A G N E S 1 1 PR.EPARATA — MAGNESIUM PREPARA- 
TIONS. 

Magnesia (p. 281) and its Carbonate (p. 282) are employed 
as antacids in dyspepsia, sick-headache, gravel, etc., particu- 
larly where a laxative effect is also desirable. Dose, gr. 



400 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTACIDS. 

x-xxx. Troches of magnesia are made by mixing magnesia, 
nutmeg, sugar, and forming with mucilage of tragacanth a 
mass, each troche containing 3 grains of magnesia. 



CALCII PRJEPARATA — CALCIUM PREPARATIONS. 

The preparations of calcium employed as antacids are Lime- 
solution, Precipitated Calcium Carbonate, Prepared Chalk 
and Prepared Oyster-shell. They are very useful in cases of 
acidity or irritability of the stomach, but their action on the 
bowels is the reverse of that of magnesia, and hence they can 
hardly be administered where there is a tendency to constipa- 
tion. They are also much employed in diarrhoea, and occa- 
sionally as alterative resolvents in glandular enlargements, as 
antispasmodics in nervous disorders, and to relieve irritability 
of the bladder from calculus. 

Liquor Calcis [Solution of Lime, Lime-water) is a satu- 
rated solution of lime in distilled water. It is a colourless, 
inodorous liquid, of a disagreeable alkaline taste, Containing 
about 0*15 per cent, of calcium hydrate (Ca2HO). By ex- 
posure to the air it gradually absorbs carbonic acid, with the 
formation of insoluble calcium carbonate. It should, there- 
fore, be kept in full, well-stoppered bottles, or they should 
contain some undissolved lime. 

Effects and Uses. — Lime-solution combines antacid and as- 
tringent properties, and is applicable to all the cases in which 
antacids are proper, where an astringent effect on the bowels is 
not objectionable. It it an excellent remedy in gastric irrita- 
bility, attended with nausea and vomiting, and may be given 
mixed with an equal part of milk, which disguises its unpleasant 
taste. A diet of milk and lime-solution is very useful in dys- 
pepsia accompanied with vomiting of food. Lime-solution is 
employed also in diarrhoea after inflammation has been sub- 
dued, in diabetes, and as an alterative resolvent in glandular 
affections. Externally it is used as a wash in tinea capitis, 
prurigo, scabies, etc., as an application to foul ulcers, and as 
an injection in leucorrhoea and gleet. Atomized inhalations of 



ANTISEPTICS. 401 

lime-solution have been found useful in diphtheria and mem- 
branous croup. Dose, internally, f §ss to f 5iij-iv several times 
a day; for children, f5j« Linimentum caleis (lime liniment) 
(equal parts of lime-solution with cottonseed oil, sometimes 
called carron oil) is an invaluable liniment in burns and 
scalds, and in small-pox. 

Calcii Carbonas Pr^cipitatus . {Precipitated Calcium 
Carbonate) (CaC0 3 ) is made by mixing boiling solutions of 
calcium chloride and sodium carbonate. It is a fine white 
powder, insoluble in water, and free from grittiness, but pos- 
sessing no superiority over prepared chalk. 

Creta Pr^parata (Prepared Chalk) (CaC0 3 ) is made from 
chalk or whiting by levigation and elutriation. It occurs in 
little white conical loaves, which are tasteless, odourless, in- 
soluble in water, but more soluble in carbonic acid water. Its 
effects are those of an absorbent, antacid and desiccant astrin- 
gent. It is used in dyspepsia and gout attended with an ex- 
cess of acid in the system ; also in diarrhoea ; and as it forms 
soluble calcium salts with the acids of the stomach, its em- 
ployment has been suggested in rachitis. Dose, gr. x-xxx, in 
powder or suspended in water with gum and sugar. Pulvis 
cretce compositus (compound chalk poivder) is made by mixing 
prepared chalk (30 per cent.) with powdered gum arabic and 
sugar. Mistura cretce (chalk mixture) consists of compound 
chalk powder (20 parts) mixed with water and cinnamon water 
(40 parts of each) ; dose, f oss, repeated. Laudanum and tinc- 
ture of kino or of catechu, and aromatics, are often added to 
this mixture in the treatment of diarrhoea. Troches of chalk 
are made by mixing prepared chalk, gum arabic, nutmeg and 
sugar, and forming a mass with water : each troche containing 
4 grains of prepared chalk. 
26 



402 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISEPTICS. 



CLASS IV.— TOPICAL MEDICINES. 

ORDER I. ANTISEPTICS. 

Antiseptics (avri, against, and ayirrdg, putrid) are remedies 
which prevent fermentation and decomposition by a poisonous 
influence on the protoplasmic germs on which those processes 
depend. The theory of putrefaction which, based upon the 
researches of Pasteur, has been steadily gaining ground and 
is now almost universally adopted, refers the changes which 
take place in decomposing matter to the agency of organized 
germs ever present in the atmosphere, which, finding a suitable 
nidus in putrescible material, grow and multiply, producing 
chemical decomposition as a result of their presence. As in 
many diseases (e. #., relapsing fever, diphtheria, etc.) certain 
organized germs have been found to take an essential part in 
the diseased process, if not to produce it, and as their presence 
is suspected in many diseases in which as yet they have not 
been demonstrated to exist, the importance of a group of agents 
which are destructive to these low forms of life can hardly be 
exaggerated. The extent to which this group of remedies will 
destroy disease germs in the body without injuring the vitality 
of the human being cannot be definitely laid down. Certain it is 
that as yet we possess very few specifics in medicine, especially 
against the zymotic diseases, which would appear a priori to be 
especially the class to which antiseptics would apply. Yet as 
antiseptics are also antipyretics, they are not without use in 
the diseased economy, even if they do not cut short the morbid 
process. 

When applied topically they are of great value not only as 
deodorants and disinfectants, but also as antiseptics in dressing 
wounds, ulcers, etc., as in Mr. Lister's antiseptic method or its 
various modifications. They are also useful to prevent the 
spread of disease when added to the excreta of patients suffer- 
ing from contagious affections. 

Many of the antiseptics have already been discussed, as sul- 



POTASSIUM PERMANGANATE. 403 

phurous acid and the sulphites, quinine, alcohol, iodine and 
solutions of many of the metallic salts, and it now remains to 
study those remedies which are used specially as topical anti- 
septic agents. 

P O T A S S 1 1 PEKMAN6ANAS — POTASSIUM PERMAN- 
GANATE. 

This salt is made by mixing together equal parts of man- 
ganese dioxide and potassium chlorate, dissolving in a little 
water, evaporating to dryness, and exposing to a nearly red 
heat ; potassium chlorate yields oxygen, which converts man- 
ganese dioxide into permanganic acid, and this combines with 
the potassium which displaces the hydrogen of the acid to form 
potassium permanganate (K 2 Mn 2 8 ). It occurs in the form of 
slender prismatic crystals of a deep purple colour, inodorous 
and of a sweetish, astringent taste. It dissolves readily in 
water, making a beautiful lilac solution, which is readily de- 
colourized by Fowler's arsenical solution. 

Effects and Uses. — There is little experience as regards the 
action of this salt when administered internally, although al- 
terative effects are attributed to it (and probably with reason) 
in poisoned conditions of the blood, as in malignant fevers, diph- 
theria, pyaemia, erysipelas, puerperal fever, etc. It is, how- 
ever, as a powerful disinfectant that it now claims chief atten- 
tion, and it now ranks at the head of this class of agents in 
destroying fetid odours and poisonous organic emanations. Its 
power in this respect is due to the evolution of oxygen in its 
more active form, ozone. It is used externally in dressing foul 
and fetid or gangrenous ulcers, particularly in hospital gangrene, 
as an application to carbuncles, as a gargle in diphtheria, etc. 
It may be sprinkled in powder on gangrenous surfaces or ap- 
plied in solution of the strength of half an ounce, an ounce 
or two ounces to a pint of water. As a disinfectant and deo- 
dorizer, a solution of from one to ten grains to an ounce of 
water may be exposed in saucers or sprinkled on the floor, or 
thrown into the air in spray by the atomizer. One to three 



404 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISEPTICS. 

grains may be given internally in solution through the day. 
Condys Fluid contains gr. ij to the fSj. 



AQUA CHLORI — CHLORINE WATER. 

This is an aqueous solution of chlorine, which is generated 
by heating hydrochloric acid 40 parts, diluted with water 25 
parts, with manganese dioxide 10 parts. The chlorine is con- 
ducted by suitable tubes, through water 50 parts, into a bottle 
containing distilled water 400 parts, with which it is agitated, 
and the chlorine water is afterwards transferred to a well- 
stoppered bottle, made impervious to light. It should be kept 
in a cool place, protected from the light, but it is soon decom- 
posed. It contains at least 0-4 per cent, of the gas. It occurs 
as a greenish-yellow liquid, having an astringent taste and the 
suffocating odour of the gas. Its employment internally is 
chiefly in essential malignant fevers, as scarlatina and typhus, 
also in syphilis and diseases of the liver, and as an antidote for 
hydrocyanic acid. Dose, f5i-iv, diluted. It is now seldom 
used internally. Externally it is used, diluted, as a wash in 
skin diseases, as an antiseptic, and by inhalation in bronchial 
affections. Chlorine acts as a disinfectant and deodorizer, 
chiefly by its affinity for the hydrogen of moisture and the 
liberation of oxygen ; its gaseous form gives it advantages in 
this respect. Solutions containing chlorine and other anti- 
septics are useful applications to suppurating surfaces, by pre- 
venting the decomposition of pus, and thereby pyaemia. In 
case of poisoning by chlorine, albumen is the best antidote. 

CALX CHLORATA — CHLORINATED LIME. 

This preparation, often called chloride of lime, is prepared 
by passing chlorine over calcium hydrate till saturation is 
effected, and is said to be principally a mixture of calcium 
hypochlorite and chloride (CaCl 2 2 and CaCl 2 ). It occurs as 
a loose, grayish-white powder, or friable lumps, dry or but 
slightly moist, readily soluble in water, of a bitter, caustic 



CARBOLIC ACID. • 405 

taste and a faint odour of chlorine. Exposed to air and 
moisture, it slowly yields hypochlorous acid (HCIO), and this 
soon breaks up into water, chloric acid (HC10 3 ) and free chlor- 
ine, and the chloric acid again yields chlorine; 25 percent, 
of chlorine should be furnished by good chlorinated lime. It 
has been used as an alterative in typhus, malignant scarlatina, 
syphilis, etc., in doses of from one to five grains, in solution, 
several times a day ; and as a wash, externally, one part dis- 
solved in a hundred parts of water ; or as a paste. It is 
chiefly, however, as a disinfectant that it is employed. Its 
effects are essentially those of chlorine, like which it decom- 
poses hydrosulphuric and hydrocyanic acids, and should not 
be given with mercurials. 

Liquor Sod^j Chlorate [Solution of Chlorinated Soda) 
(NaCl,NaC10), sometimes termed Labarraque 's Disinfecting 
Liquid, is made by decomposing a solution of sodium car- 
bonate by one of chlorinated lime. It is a transparent, 
greenish-yellow liquid, with a faint smell of chlorine, a sharp 
saline taste and an alkaline reaction. It has been used inter- 
nally, to fulfill the same indications as chlorinated lime, in doses 
of thirty drops to a teaspoonful, diluted, several times a day. 
It is useful, also, in dilution of various strengths, as an external 
application to every form of fetid ulcer, and it is a most valu- 
able and powerful disinfectant. 

Bromine (vide Escharotics) and iodine are antiseptics, acting 
in a manner similar to chlorine. They are seldom used for this 
purpose. 



ACIDUM CARBOLIC UM — CARBOLIC ACID. 

This substance, termed also phenic acid or phenyl hydrate, 
is a product of the distillation of coal-tar oil. 

Crude Carbolic Acid (Acidum Carbolicum Crudum) is 
made by treating the impure coal-tar of commerce with a satu- 
rated solution of potash, when it is resolved, on the addition 
of water, into a light oil and a heavier alkaline liquid ; the 
latter is separated and neutralized with muriatic acid, and the 



406 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISEPTICS. 

impure carbolic acid, which is disengaged, is afterwards dis- 
tilled from dried calcium, to remove water, when upon exposing 
the distillate to a low temperature, carbolic acid congeals in 
the form of a colourless crystalline mass. 

In its pure state it is solid at ordinary temperatures, crystal- 
lizing in long rhomboidal needles, white or colourless, of a pecul- 
iar empyreumatic odour like that of creasote (but not identical 
with it) and an acrid, burning taste ; if even slightly impure, 
it has a reddish colour, or will acquire it upon exposure. Its 
sp. gr. is 10-65, and it deliquesces upon exposure, and readily 
assumes the liquid state in the presence of a little water, with- 
out dissolving in it. When quite pure it melts at 106° F., 
forming an oily-looking, colourless liquid, which boils at 359° 
F. It is soluble in 20 parts of water, and very soluble in 
alcohol, ether, acetic acid, glycerin (commercial and absolute) 
and the fixed and volatile oils. Carbolic acid may be recog- 
nized by the following tests : 

" 1st, by its peculiar smell ; 2d, by the formation of yellow 
picric acid with nitric acid of 36° B. ; 3d, by the production 
of a blue or green colour " (Salkowski's test) " when treated with 
a small quantity of ammonium hydrate and a trace of a solu- 
tion of a hypochlorite ; 4th, by a lilac colour produced on the 
addition of a small quantity of ferric sulphate ; 5th, by a yel- 
lowish-white precipitate with bromine water " (Witthaus). 
The last three tests are very delicate. 6th. The most delicate 
test is that suggested by Plugge : " when a liquid containing 
carbolic acid is boiled with a little solution of mercurous 
nitrate containing a trace of nitrous acid, a reduction of the 
mercurous salt takes place and the liquid becomes of an in- 
tensely red colour." This test is said to detect 1 part of car- 
bolic acid in 200,000. Carbolic acid in solution coagulates 
albumen and precipitates nitro-celloluse from collodion, which 
distinguishes it from creasote. Although it combines with 
salifiable bases, it does not act as an acid upon colours, and is 
chemically phenyl hydrate (C 6 H 5 HO). 

Physiological Effects. — Carbolic acid is a protoplasmic poi- 
son destructive to all forms of life, whether vegetable or animal. 



CARBOLIC ACID. 407 

"When applied to the skin it produces a white superficial eschar, 
becoming brownish. When applied in a concentrated form 
it causes very great local anaesthesia, extending inward for 
some depth to the tissues with which the acid has not come in 
contact. Nervous system : after poisonous doses have been 
given to animals, there is paralysis of the posterior extremi- 
ties, extending to the anterior, and finally reflex tetanic 
convulsions. In man a poisonous dose produces vertigo, con- 
tracted pupils, and stupor with sometimes tremors, never, 
however, amounting to convulsions, as in the lower animals. 
The convulsions are probably of spinal origin — certainly not 
peripheral. The reflex activity is at first increased, then abol- 
ished. The nerves and muscles are not paralyzed, but after 
death they are found to be more readily exhausted than normal. 
Circulation : the heart is at first depressed, afterwards accel- 
erated (caused by stimulation and exhaustion of the vagi). In 
slow cases of poisoning, death is produced by diastolic arrest. 
The arterial pressure is reduced on account of the paralysis of 
the vaso-motor centre of the cord. Dr. Prudden (Am. J. M. 
Sc, January, 1881) has shown that in strong solution it 
paralyzes, while in weak solution it renders sluggish the 
movements of the w T hite corpuscles in frogs. Carbolic acid 
probably enters the blood as an alkaline carbolate. Respira- 
tion is aifected early in the poisoning, the movements being 
much increased in frequency but very shallow ; this increase 
is due to stimulation partly of the peripheral vagi and partly 
of the respiratory centre (Salkowski). Temperature is some- 
what reduced. Elimination takes place by all the secretions, 
especially by the urine, saliva and breath. When a small 
amount only is taken, it is probably all excreted as an alkaline 
carbolate ; but when the amount is larger, a portion is oxidized 
in the system and escapes under different forms, especially as 
oxalic acid in the urine. These products of oxidation gener- 
ally colour the urine dark brown or black, and as this is one of 
the first signs of poisoning, the urine should always be watched 
when carbolic acid is being administered or when it is applied 
to a large surface. Post-mortem appearances : after death 



408 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISEPTICS. 

from a concentrated solution of the acid, hard, white, dry spots 
surrounded by a circle of inflammation are found on all the 
mucous membranes with which the acid comes in contact, even 
as far down as the intestines in some instances. All the viscera 
are filled with dark, imperfectly-coagulated blood, and some- 
times there is fatty degeneration of the liver and kidneys. 
The external application of carbolic acid has destroyed life. 
As a chemical antidote in cases of poisoning a saturated solu- 
tion of saccharate of calcium has been recommended. Atropia 
is the physiological antagonist of carbolic acid ; enough should 
be given to counteract the depressing effect of the acid upon 
the respiration and circulation, and diluents should be freely 
administered to aid in its elimination (A. C. Post, quoted by 
Bartholow). 

Medicinal Uses. — Carbolic acid is used internally to check 
vomiting, as an astringent in diarrhoea, in sarcina ventriculi, as 
an anthelmintic, and in zymotic diseases, as small-pox, typhoid 
fever, scarlatina, erysipelas^ diphtheria, etc. It has also been 
given internally with some success in cholera, cholera morbus 
and diabetes of hepatic origin. In phthisis and gangrene of the 
lungs it has been found of service, and combined with iodine 
in chronic malarial poisoning it. is highly recommended (Bar- 
tholow). Carbolic acid spray is used as an inhalation in 
chronic nasal catarrh, hay asthma, chronic bronchitis, whoop- 
ing cough, phthisis, gangrene of the lungs, etc., with a view of 
destroying germs, stimulating the mucous membrane to healthy 
action and correcting fetor. Deep-seated injections into the 
tissues of a two per cent, solution of carbolic acid, as recom- 
mended by Huter, have been practiced with success in ery- 
sipelas (Aufrecht), abscesses, etc., and are thrown into the 
cavity of joints in synovites and into bursse in ganglion, etc. 
Extraordinary care must be taken not to inject the acid into 
a blood-vessel. Dr. R. J. Levis injects pure carbolic acid (the 
crystals liquefied by heat) t5ss-j into the sac of tunica va- 
ginalis after evacuating its contents, for the radical cure of 
hydrocele. This treatment is followed at the Out-Patient 
Surgical Department of the Jefferson College Hospital with 
almost unvarying success. 



CARBOLIC ACID. 409 

As an external application its uses are still more important. 
It is employed in the concentrated form as a caustic in condy- 
lomata, lupus, etc., and to produce local anaethesia for minor 
surgical operations, as opening abscesses, felons, etc., and in 
various forms of dilution as an application in diphtheria, in 
cutaneous eruptions (especially those of organic origin), as a 
dressing to foul ulcers, abscesses and sinuses, to compound 
fractures, to carbuncles, to burns and scalds, to suppurating 
surfaces with a view to the prevention of pyaemia, .and, from its 
influence in coagulating albumen, as an haemostatic. Under 
the belief that carbolic acid destroys the organic floating germs 
which produce inflammation and suppuration upon wounded 
surfaces, washings and dressings with solutions of this acid (1 
part to 40 parts of water) have been much employed, as first 
suggested by Professor Lister, of Edinburgh. It is also a most 
valuable disinfectant. The dose, internally, is one or two 
grains, or, if liquefied by heat, one or two drops, in sweetened 
water or glycerin. For disinfectant purposes, the crude 
liquid acid (which contains from 70 to 90 per cent, of car- 
bolic and cresylic acids jointly, with impurites derived from 
coal-tar) answers very well. Sodium and potassium carbo- 
lates have been also employed. Ointment of carbolic acid 
(unguentum acidi carbolici) contains 10 per cent, of carbolic 
acid in ointment. 

Sodii Sulpiio-carbolas [Sodium Sulpho-carbolate) (NaC 6 H 5 
S0 4 2H 2 0) is a colourless, transparent salt occurring in rhombic 
prisms, permanent in the air, soluble in about 5 parts of water, 
and also in glycerin and alcohol. It is obtained by adding 
sodium carbonate to a solution of barium sulpho-carbolate 
(previously obtained by adding barium carbonate to sulpho-car- 
bolic acid (made by dissolving one part of crystallized carbolic 
acid in an equal amount by weight of strong sulphuric acid 
(C 6 H 6 HO + H a S0 4 =C 6 H 5 HS0 4 +H 2 0), and stirring until effer- 
vescence ceases and then filtering). Potassium, magnesium and 
calcium sulpho-carbonates have also been employed ; they may 
be given as antiseptics in cholera and zymotic diseases gener- 
ally. Prof. Bartholow recommends them as excellent topical 



410 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISEPTICS. 

applications to inflamed mucous membranes, and has seen good 
results attend their use in tonsillitis, aphthae of children, catarrh 
of the nares and gonorrhoea. Sodium sulpho-carbolate is a good 
remedy for flatulence ; dose, gr. x-xv. The lead sulpho-car- 
bolate might be used where the lead acetate is indicated and 
the corrective action of carbolic acid is called for, while its 
solubility in glycerin and alcohol adapt it to external application. 

CREASOTUM — CREASOTE. 

Creasote is a complex substance obtained from wood-tar by 
dry distillation, or from crude pyroligneous acid ; the best is 
made from beechwood-tar. It contains phenol (C 6 H 5 HO), 
cresylol (C 6 H 4 (CH 3 )HO), creasol (C 8 H 10 O 2 ) and other sub- 
stances obtained from wood-tar. When pure it is a colour- 
less, oleaginous liquid, with a caustic, burning taste and a 
penetrating, disagreeable characteristic odour, like that of 
smoked meat. Its sp. gr. (U. S. P.) is 1-035-1-085, but 
when pure is 1*08. After exposure to light for a long period 
it becomes , wine-yellow ; if it turns red, it is not fit for me- 
dicinal use. It forms two solutions with water, one of 1 part 
to 80 parts of water, the other of 1 part of water to 10 parts 
of creasote ; and it is soluble, in all proportions, in alcohol, 
ether, naphtha and acetic acid. Crude phenol is often sub- 
stituted for creasote ; the latter may be distinguished by its 
insolubility in commercial glycerin ; by not precipitating nitro- 
cellulose from collodion when mixed with it ; by giving a green 
colour with ferric chloride and alcohol (phenol gives a brown 
colour) and by giving a green colour passing to brown with 
ferric chloride and ammonium hydrate (phenol giving a violet 
colour) (Witthaus). A remarkable property of creasote is its 
power of preserving meat, whence its name (from Kpeag, flesh, 
and o^>;«, I save). 

Effects and Uses. — Creasote possesses many properties in 
common with carbolic acid. It is eliminated by the bronchial 
mucous membrane (which it stimulates as it passes out, and 
hence is a good expectorant), by the kidneys, etc. It is not 



SALICYLIC ACID. 411 

much used because of the difficulty of procuring the pure drug. 
In large doses is an acro-narcotic poison, resembling carbolic 
acid, but with more marked nervous symptoms. In small doses 
it is styptic and astringent, and, though not very nearly allied 
to the vegetable astringent articles which contain tannic acid, 
it is, perhaps, more generally administered for its astringent 
than for any other properties. It is an excellent remedy in 
hiematemesis, and is also employed in haemoptysis and other 
hemorrhages. It is very efficacious in allaying vomiting and 
gastric irritability, and has been exhibited for its astringent 
virtues with good effect in diarrhoea, diabetes and chronic bron- 
chitis, and as a nervine in epilepsy, hysteria, neuralgia, etc. 
Externally it is applied, in various degrees of dilution, to indo- 
lent, sloughing and foul ulcers; in several cutaneous affections ; 
as a gargle in putrid sore throat ; and for the relief of deaf- 
ness. In the concentrated form it is a good styptic in capil- 
lary hemorrhages, and is applied with effect to the hollows of 
carious teeth, for the removal of the pain of toothache. In 
cases of poisoning from creasote the same treatment is to be 
resorted to as in poisoning by carbolic acid. 

Dose, internally, lT|j-iij, frequently repeated, in pill or 
diluted with mucilage. 

For external use, from two to six drops, or more, may be 
added to a fluidounce of distilled water. 

Aqua Creasoti (Creasote Water) (1 part to distilled water 
99 parts). Dose, f5j-iv. 

ACIDUM SALICYLICUM — SALICYLIC ACID. 

This acid, although known for nearly half a century as a 
derivative of salicin (see p. 146), has been employed only re- 
cently as an article of the Materia Medica. It has been pre- 
pared from the flowers of Spircea ulmaria or Meadow-Sweet, 
and from the oil of gaultheria (where it exists as methyl 
salicylate), and by the oxidation of salicin. It is now made 
by combining pure carbolic acid with caustic soda, and treating 
this compound with dry carbonic acid under the influence of a 



412 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISEPTICS. 

gradually-increasing heat, when one-half of the carbolic acid 
distills over, while the other half, into the molecule of which 
carbonic acid enters, remains behind as sodium salicylate ; 
from a hot aqueous solution of this, saturated with muriatic 
acid, salicylic acid (C 6 H 4 {§ooh} is obtained in the form of 
minute, broken, acicular crystals (having usually the appear- 
ance of a pale-pinkish granular powder), which are bleached 
with great difficulty. It is odourless and nearly tasteless, 
having, however, a sweet and astringent after-taste, with slight 
acridity in the fauces. It is practically insoluble in cold water, 
but quite soluble in boiling water, a hot aqueous solution re- 
taining when cold, in proportion to its coldness, from 1 part in 
250 to 500 parts of the solution. The addition of 2 parts of 
sodium sulphite or 1 part of ammonium phosphate, or 3 parts 
of sodium phosphate, renders it much more soluble in water. 
It is freely soluble in alcohol, ether and glycerin. Dissolved 
in water, a fine violet colour is produced on the addition of 
ferric chloride. 

• Physiological Effects. — In its effects salicylic acid is allied 
to carbolic acid, possessing probably greater powers as an anti- 
septic, and in arresting the putrefactive and fermentative pro- 
cesses, while it is devoid of smell or notable taste, is not volatile, 
and is also, in quantities necessary for effective action, free from 
irritant or poisonous influence. When given internally in full 
medicinal doses buzzing and roaring in the ears, with fullness in 
the head, are experienced, which are much increased after the 
administration of large doses, amounting even to deafness and 
accompanied by headache and partial blindness. If an excess- 
ive dose is taken all the symptoms are intensified, and great 
restlessness, followed by delirium, involuntary evacuations, 
stupor, and in the lower animals convulsions, are observed. 
The action of salicylic acid upon the ear (as well as the similar 
action of quinine) has been investigated with varying results. 
Kirchner concludes that these remedies produce intense conges- 
tion of the tympanum and labyrinth (due to vaso-motor dis- 
turbance), which may lead to changes in the nerve filaments ; 
while Weber-Liel and Guder found anaemia of these parts as 



SALICYLIC ACID. 41o 

the result of the ingestion of the drug (Med. Rec. Oct. 28, 
1882). 

The heart-beat is at first increased in frequency, but after- 
wards slowed ; excessive doses cause the pulse to become slow 
and laboured. The blood pressure is at first elevated (from the 
action of the acid on the heart and on the vaso-motor centres), 
then lowered. Blood : Prudden (Am. J. M. Sc, lxxxii. 82), 
from experiments upon frogs, verified on rabbits and on the 
human blood, concludes that salicylic acid restrains emigration, 
and in strong solutions is inimical to the life, in weak solutions 
to the activity-, of the white blood corpuscles. Respiration is at 
first quicker and deeper than normal (from the action of the 
drug on' the vagi and to some extent on the respiratory centre) ; 
later it becomes slow and laboured, and death results from as- 
phyxia. Temperature : non-toxic doses have little or no effect 
upon the normal temperature ; in fever, however, salicylic acid 
causes a marked reduction in the body heat which lasts for 
several hours. Secretion : full doses cause free diaphoresis 
which is sometimes exhausting. The urine is sometimes in- 
creased, sometimes diminished, and often contains albumen. It 
somewhat increases the secretion of milk, and the amount of 
sugar in that secretion seems to be augmented (Dr. Max 
Stumpf, Deutsches archiv. fur klinische Med., Jan., 1882, 
quoted in Bost. Med. and Surg. J., Aug. 3, 1882). Gastro- 
intestinal tract : large amounts cause nausea and often vomit- 
ing. Absorption and elimination : it is probably absorbed as a 
sodium salicylate, and is eliminated principally by the urine 
partly unchanged, and partly as salicyluric and (possibly) oxalic 
acid. Elimination takes place slowly. After the ingestion of 
large quantities the urine will be coloured green from an in- 
crease of the indican (Wood, H. C). 

Medicinal Uses. — For its antipyretic effect salicylic acid has 
been used in fevers with varying success. In acute rheumatism, 
especially in robust patients, it is pre-eminently of value, re- 
ducing the temperature, relieving the joint affection and ameli- 
orating the pain ; but whether it shortens the duration and 
decreases the frequency of cardiac complications and relapses 



414 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISEPTICS. 

is still disputed. In rheumatic hyperpyrexia it is ■ i alue, but 
should not be relied on to the exclusion of othc means of 
reducing temperature. In gonorrhoeal rheum atisn *nd gout 
where no kidney complication exists it is also of s ,r ice, and 
has been recommended in typhoid and eruptive fev v vsemia, 
puerperal fever, diphtheria, etc. ; although not as "-re in 

these diseases as in rheumatism, and, indeed, ha^ 3e con- 
demned by some as being of no avail. It has no ci rativ fleet 
upon malarial fevers, but if given just before the ex -ted 
paroxysm it will prevent its occurrence (Bartholow). it : ? 
strongly recommended in acute tonsillitis in doses of f v. x 
every two to four hours (Dr. Edward Mackey, Brit. Me< J^ 
Oct. 14, 1882). As an antizymotic to prevent fermentation of 
the ingesta it is recommended in gastric catarrh, gastric dila- 
tation, sarcina and allied complaints. Bartholow strongly 
recommends it in gastralgia. As an anthelmintic salicylic 
acid has been used with success against tape-worm, and also 
internally and locally against ascarides. Externally it has been 
used in the moist stages of eczema and eczema rubrum with 
good results. 

As a detergent and desiccant it may be sprinkled dry on 
wounds or ulcers in the form of powder, or mixed in various 
proportions with some inert powder, as starch ; or a solution, 1 
part to 300 parts of water, may be used as a substitute for the 
antiseptic carbolic dressing ; the stronger solution with sot" ,m 
phosphate, 1 part to 50 parts of water, is used to wash or spray 
foul surfaces, or as an application in diphtheria ; a solution of 
a grain to f§i of water is a good injection in gonorrhoea and 
collyrium in conjunctivitis ; dose, gr. x-5j. Whether em- 
ployed internally or externally it passes rapidly into the urine, 
and gives the iron chloride a blue or violet reaction. The 
acid retains its antiseptic properties only so long as it remains 
in the free state. 

Sodii Salicylas (Sodium' Salicylate) is a white crystalline 
powder, without smell and having a sweetish, alkaline taste 
(2NaC 7 H 5 3 .H 2 0). It is less irritant to the stomach than 
salicylic acid, and is preferred for internal use. Locally it is 



BORIC ACID. 415 

recomme i. ;1 in solution (sodii salicyl. 5ij> tr. opii 5ij, water 
5viij) to. aieve the suffering produced by gouty hands and 
feet and t . ..eumatic joints (Dr. E. Mackey, Brit. Med. J., Oct. 
14, 1882 Dr. Baudon anoints the surface three times a day in 
variola a. sodium salicylate 5j to cold cream 5J. This lessens 
supp" >n and removes the odour. 

L ±} j alicylas {Lithium Salicylate) is also officinal, and 
is us .', Eternally to fulfill the indications of salicylic acid. The 
salt- ^re given in doses corresponding to that of the acid. 

■ 

<§ ACIDUM BORIC UM — BORIC ACID. 

A: 
■ Boric or Boracic Acid (H 3 B0 3 ) exists in nature in volcanic 
regions, notably in Tuscany. In this region, which was for- 
merly the main source of supply of this acid, jets of steam, 
called suffioni, escape through fissures in the hillsides, and are 
made to pass through a series of shallow basins along which 
water is slowly flowing. The water becomes charged with 
boric acid, which is converted into borax. A boiling concen- 
trated solution of borax is slowly decomposed with an excess 
of sulphuric acid, and on cooling, boric acid is obtained in 
transparent six-sided crystalline plates, unctuous to the touch, 
odourless, slightly bitter, soluble in cold water, more so in 
alcohol and very soluble in" boiling water. The supply to the 
U jjfeed States is now derived almost exclusively from Borax 
Lake in California, about one hundred miles north of San 
Francisco. 

Effects and Uses. — Boric acid is anti-putrescent and deodor- 
ant, arresting fermentation and proving very poisonous to the 
lower forms of life. Neumann found by experiments on dogs, 
verified on rabbits and young pigs, that boric acid causes a 
decided fall in the temperature of the body. Large doses 
caused diarrhoea and vomiting. Three per cent, solutions 
injected into the serous cavities caused no inflammation, but 
when large amounts were injected the animal died from paraly- 
sis of the motor nerves and muscles (N. Y. Med. J., Jan. 27, 
1883, quoted from Lancet). 



416 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISEPTICS. 

Mododewkow reports two fatal cases of poisoning with boracic 
acid. In one case a pleuritic cavity and in the other a lumbar 
abscess were washed out with a five per cent, solution of the 
acid, some of which remained in both cases. The symptoms 
were, persistent vomiting, hiccough, erythema beginning on the 
face, slight temporary rise of temperature, diminished cardiac 
power ending in paralysis. He suggests morphine and stimu- 
lants in like cases (Am. J. Med. Sc, April, 1882, quoted 
from Wratsch, No. 31, 1881). 

Boric acid is used externally as an antiseptic in the treat- 
ment of wounds, burns, ulcers, abscesses, phlegmonous ery- 
sipelas, eczema, etc. It has also been used with advantage in 
inflammation of the mucous membranes, as aphthae, diphtheritic 
inflammations of the mouth, etc. It may be dusted into the 
external auditory meatus in inflammation of that canal, and 
has been used with advantage in inflammation of the conjunc- 
tiva. Used as an injection, it appears to shorten the duration 
of gonorrhoea (H. M.). 

SOD II BORAS — SODIUM BORATE. 

Borax occurs as a native product in several localities, the 
most important of which for a long time was Thibet, in Asia ; 
it is also made artificially by the direct combination of native 
boric acid with soda. Borax (Na 2 B 4 O 7 ,10H 2 O) occurs in the 
form of hexahedral prismatic crystals, terminated by trian- 
gular pyramids, of a sweetish alkaline taste and an alkaline 
reaction. It is wholly soluble in water, and slowly effloresces, 
and has the property of rendering cream of tartar very soluble 
in water. 

Effects and Uses. — Borax is a mild refrigerant and diuretic, 
and locally an antiseptic, and has emmenagogue virtues attrib- 
uted to it. Dose, gr. xxx. It has been given in infantile 
diarrhoea as an enema, and is used externally in cutaneous 
affections (3j to water Oj as a wash in pruritus and in acne 
punctata), but especially as a detergent in aphthous affections 
of the mouth in children, mixed with equal parts of sugar. A 



BENZOIC ACID. 417 

piece of borax slowly dissolved in the mouth will often cure 
acute hoarseness. Grlyceriie of sodium borate may be made by 
rubbing up sodium borate oij in glycerin Oss ; honey of sodium 
borate may be made by mixing 5j with clarified honey tSj. 
Both these preparations are used chiefly as applications to the 
mouth and throat, but are not officinal. 

ACIDUM BENZOIC UM — BENZOIC ACID. 

Benzoic Acid (HC 7 H 5 2 ) is obtained from benzoin by 
sublimation, or by the action of alkalies ; it is also made in 
Germany from hippuric acid. As obtained by sublimation, it 
occurs in white, soft, feathery hexagonal crystals, of a silky 
lustre, and not pulverulent. It has more or less of the 
agreeable odour of the balsam, a warm, acrid and acidulous 
taste, is inflammable, sparingly soluble in cold water, rather 
soluble in boiling water, but perfectly soluble in alcohol, alka- 
line solutions and fixed oils. It is a constituent of the 
balsams. 

Effects and Uses. — Benzoic acid is a local irritant, destroy- 
ing minute organisms, possessing decided antiseptic properties, 
and acting on the general system as a stimulant, with a par- 
ticular direction to the mucous surfaces. In large doses it 
increases the circulation and respiration, and is said to be a 
more powerful antipyretic than salicylic acid. It stimulates 
the cutaneous and bronchial secretions, and increases the acidity 
of the urine. In its passage through the system it abstracts 
nitrogen from the elements of urea, and passes out with the 
urine in the form of hippuric acid ; hence its use in ursemic 
poisoning, also in the treatment of ammoniacal urine. It has 
been used in diphtheria, erysipelas, etc., with a view to its 
antiseptic effects, and as an expectorant in chronic bronchial 
affections. Locally it is used as a dressing for wounds, ulcers, 
etc., and to prevent animal fats from becoming rancid. Dose, 
gr. v-xx. 

Sodii Benzoas (Sodium Benzoate) (NaC 7 H 5 2 .H 2 0) is a 
white amorphous powder, which effloresces on exposure to the 
27 



418 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTISEPTICS. 

air, and has a faint odour of benzoin and a sweetish, astringent 
taste. It has been used as a substitute for salicylic acid, being 
less powerful as an antipyretic, but is a safer remedy. It has 
been used extensively in phthisis, with a view to its antiseptic 
qualities ; also in diphtheria, scarlet fever and the eruptive 
fevers generally, whooping-cough, etc. ; and in acute rheum- 
atism as an antipyretic. From 5j-iij may be given in twenty- 
four hours. 

Ammonii Benzoas (Ammonium Benzoate) (NH 4 C 7 .H 5 2 ) is 
made by adding water of ammonia to an aqueous solution of 
benzoic acid, and occurs in the form of minute white, shining, 
thin, four-sided laminar crystals, with a slight odour of ben- 
zoic acid and a bitterish, saline, somewhat balsamic taste and 
slightly acrid but persistent aftertaste. It is soluble in water 
and alcohol, and, when heated, sublimes without residue. It 
is incompatible with the ferric salts. This salt, when taken 
internally, is probably decomposed by the gastric acids, and 
produces the constitutional effects of benzoic acid, for which it 
may be substituted ; the ammonia renders it stimulant and 
antacid, and acceptable to irritable stomachs. Dose, 10 to 20 
grains. 

THYMOL. 

Thymol (C 10 H 13 HO), called also cymylic phenol, is a solid 
crystalline substance found in the volatile oil (oleum thymi) 
distilled from the Thymus vulgaris (vide p. 215). It is sep- 
arated by fractional distillation ; that portion of the oil which 
distills above 392° F. is agitated with a concentrated solution 
of caustic soda, and the thymol liberated from the resulting 
solution by hydrochloric acid. It is purified by rectification, 
and occurs as large colourless rhombohedral crystals, having 
an aromatic odour and a hot, aromatic taste ; slightly soluble 
in water, but very soluble in ether and alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — Thymol is a powerful antiseptic. Its 
effects are analogous to carbolic acid, and like that agent, when 
locally applied it produces paralysis of the cutaneous end- 
organs of the sensory nerves (Lewin ; Bartholow). When 



RUBEFACIENTS. 419 

given internally it produced tinnitus aurium, deafness, re- 
duction of temperature, and often diarrhoea, sometimes nausea 
and vomiting. In several cases it caused violent delirium and 
collapse ; profuse diaphoresis took place, and the urine was of 
a dark-green colour, but free from albumen ; the sweating was 
not as marked as that produced by salicylic acid, nor was the 
antipyretic effect as great. Thymol is very expensive and con- 
sequently is not much used. As an antiseptic in inflammations 
and ulcerations of the mouth it is very useful, and has been used 
as an inhalation to diminish the expectoration of phthisis, etc. 
Locally it is used to fulfill the same indications as carbolic acid. 
Prof. Da Costa recommends crystallized thymol internally in 
small-pox, in doses of gr. ss, and as a gargle in diphtheria. 

ORDER II. — IRRITANTS. 

Irritants are medicines which are employed to prpduce irri- 
gation or inflammation of the parts to which they are applied. 
They maybe subdivided into Rubefacients, Epispastics, Sup- 
purants and Escharotics. Rubefacients are used merely to 
produce redness of the skin. Epispastics, or Vesicants, cause 
the exhalation of a serous fluid under the cuticle. Suppurants 
produce a crop of pustules. Escharotics have a chemical action 
on the tissues with which they are placed in contact, and decom- 
pose or destroy them. 

RUBEFACIENTS. 

Rubefacients are employed to remove congestion and inflam- 
mation, to rouse the capillary system in cases of local torpor, 
to relieve pain and spasm, and as stimulants to the general 
system in coma, syncope, asphyxia, etc. They are adapted to 
cases in which a sudden and powerful, but transient, action is 
called for ; but they may be also employed where a slight and 
long-continued action is desired. In removing congestion and 
inflammation, rubefacients act by stimulating the capillary 
vessels of inflamed parts, and thereby restoring their tone and 



420 MATERIA MEDICA — IRRITANTS. 

elasticity. They are useful chiefly in the forming stages or in 
light grades of inflammation. They are very serviceable local 
anodynes when applied to painful parts — acting by a substitu- 
tive influence. As general stimulants, their efficacy in rousing 
the system depends partly on their action on the capillary 
circulation, and partly on the pain which they produce. They 
are most valuable in the coma or asphyxia resulting from 
poisons, drowning, etc., and are inferior to blisters in the cere- 
bral oppression which occurs in fevers, inflammations of the 
brain, etc. 

Rubefacients are usually applied till pain and redness super- 
vene. If kept too long on the skin, many of them will pro- 
duce vesication and even gangrene ; and in cases of coma par- 
ticular caution is required, as the patient may not feel them 
till dangerous inflammation has occurred. 



SINAPIS — MUSTARD. 

• 

Mustard seeds are obtained from two varieties of Sinapis 
— S. nigra, or Black Mustard, and S. alba, or White Mustard 
(Nat. Ord. Cruciferae), small annual European plants, culti- 
vated in our gardens. S. nigra has become naturalized in 
some parts of the United States. Black-mustard seeds are 
small, globular, of a deep-brown colour externally, and inter- 
nally yellow. They are inodorous, except in powder ; and 
when rubbed with water exhale a very strong, pungent smell. 
Their taste is bitterish, hot and pungent. White-mustard seeds 
are larger, yellowish externally, and of a less pungent taste, 
owing to the presence of a mucilaginous substance in their skin. 
The powder of both varieties (commonly called flour of mus- 
tard) is yellow, and is often adulterated with coloured wheaten 
flour. Both varieties yield their virtues wholly to water, and 
very slightly to alcohol. 

Chemical Constituents. — Mustard seeds yield, upon pressure, 
a fixed saponifiable oil, which contains oleic acid and a peculiar 
acid termed eruic (HC 22 H 41 2 ). From the black seeds a very 
pungent volatile oil, containing sulphur, is afterwards obtained 



MUSTARD. 421 

by distillation ; it does not pre-exist in the seeds, but is the re- 
sult of the action of water upon a peculiar principle called 
sinnigrin or potassium myronate (C 10 H 18 NS 2 KO 12 ). It is 
allyl sulphocyanide (C 3 H 5 CyS), is colourless or pale-yellow, 
rather heavier than water, of a very pungent odour and an 
acrid, burning taste, and is the principle to which the black 
seeds owe their activity. From the white seeds no volatile oil 
is obtained ; but when treated with water they yield an acrid 
fixed principle, which is analogous in properties to the volatile 
oil of the black seeds. It is the result of the reaction of ivater 
upon sinalbin (C 30 H 44 N 2 S 2 O 16 ), a peculiar ingredient of the white 
seeds. The development of the volatile oil in the black seeds, 
and of the acrid fixed principle in the white seeds, is supposed to 
depend upon the presence of an albuminous constituent called 
myrosyn, which acts the part of a ferment in determining a 
reaction between water and the peculiar principles of the seeds. 
Myrosyn is rendered inert by heat, alcohol and the acids; and 
water, of the ordinary temperature, is therefore the proper men- 
struum of mustard. 

Effects and Uses. — Mustard is an acrid stimulant. In small 
quantities it is stomachic ; in larger doses it proves -emetic ; 
and in excessive doses it will produce gastro-enteric inflamma- 
tion. When applied to the skin it is a rapid and powerful local 
excitant, speedily producing redness and pain, and if long con- 
tinued it will develop vesication, ulceration and even sphacelus. 
Mustard seeds, swallowed whole, have been used as a laxative 
in dyspepsia, in the dose of a tablespoonful once or twice a day, 
mixed with molasses : the white seeds are preferred ; the prac- 
tice is, however, of doubtful value, as they may become en- 
tangled in the appendicula vermiformis. When mustard is 
employed internally, however, it is chiefly as an emetic, in cases 
of torpor of the stomach, particularly after narcotic poisoning ; 
and by its stimulant action, mustard often rouses the gastric 
susceptibility when other emetics fail. Dose, as an emetic, 
from a large teaspoonful to a tablespoonful of the bruised seeds 
or powder. Its use in smaller quantity, as a condiment and 
stimulant of the digestive organs, is well known. In the form 



422 MATERIA MEDICA — IRRITANTS. 

of whey (tgss boiled in milk Oj) it has been given as a diuretic 
in dropsy. The most general use of mustard is, however, as 
a cutaneous stimulant, in the form of cataplasm (termed a 
sinapism). This is made by mixing flour of mustard with a 
sufficient quantity of tepid water to give it proper consistence, 
and it may be diluted with wheat or rye flour if a weaker effect 
is desired. Sinapisms are used when a speedy and powerful 
rubefacient effect is required ; they should be kept on till pain 
and redness are produced, usually from a quarter of an hour 
to an hour, and in cases of insensibility their effects should 
be carefully watched. They are applied spread on linen, and 
covered with gauze to prevent adhesion to the skin. Mustard 
is the most active and at the same time the most easily con- 
trolled of the rubefacients ; a mild but permanent effect may 
be kept up by the addition of a teaspoonful to a tablespoonful 
of mustard to a poultice of Indian meal or flaxseed, with a 
tablespoonful or two of capsicum. 

For ready use there is now kept in the shops charta sinapis 
(mustard paper), which is prepared by mixing black mustard 
(in powder) with enough solution of gutta-percha to give it a 
semi-liq.uid consistence, and then applying the mixture by a 
brush to a piece of stiff paper ; each square inch contains about 
gr. vj of mustard. Before being applied to the skin it should 
be dipped for about fifteen seconds in warm water. 

Oleum sinapis volatile (volatile oil of mustard), the vol- 
atile oil obtained from black mustard by maceration with water 
and subsequent distillation, possesses the properties of mustard. 
It is very irritant. It is used in making 

Linimentum sinapis compositum (compound liniment of 
mustard), which is composed of volatile oil of mustard (3 per 
cent.), extract of mezereum (2 per cent.), camphor (6 per cent.), 
castor oil (15 per cent.) and alcohol. 

CAPSICUM. 

Capsicum has been previously noticed as an aromatic stim- 
ulant (p. 204). It is an efficient rubefacient, useful in rheum- 



BURGUNDY PITCH. 423 

atism, low fevers, etc. ; the plaster, tincture or oleoresin may 
be used. 



OLEUM TEREBINTHINiE — OIL OF TURPENTINE. 

The Oil of Turpentine (vide pp. 208 and 335) is a speedy 
and efficacious rubefacient, and sometimes produces a vesicular 
eruption. It is employed in low forms of disease attended 
with coldness of the surface ; as a counter-irritant in inflam- 
mation ; and as a stimulating liniment in rheumatic and para- 
lytic cases. It is often diluted with olive oil. 

LINIMENTUM AMMONIA — LINIMENT OF AMMONIA. 

This preparation, called also Volatile Liniment, consists of 
8 parts of water of ammonia (vide p. 200) and 7 parts of cotton- 
seed oil. It is an excellent application, as a counter-irritant, 
in affections of the throat and chest, etc. 

PIX BURGUNDICA — BURGUNDY PITCH. 

This is the prepared resinous exudation from Abies excelsa, 
or Norway Spruce (Nat. Ord. Coniferse), a lofty evergreen tree 
of Europe and northern Asia. Abies picea, or the European 
Silver Fir, is said to be also a source of the drug. It is ob- 
tained by stripping off the bark and detaching the flakes of 
resinous matter which form upon the surface of the wound ; 
they are afterwards melted in boiling* water and strained. 
Burgundy pitch is collected principally in Germany and 
France, and derives its name from Burgundy, in the latter 
country. After it is imported into the United States it is 
generally remelted and strained to free it from impurities ; 
and as found in the shops it is a hard, brittle, opaque sub- 
stance, of a yellowish or brownish-yellow colour and a weak 
terebinthinate taste and smell ; when applied to the body it 
softens and becomes adhesive. It contains resin and a much 
smaller proportion of volatile oil (C 10 H 16 ) than turpentine. 



424 MATERIA MEDICA — IRRITANTS. 

A spurious Burgundy pitch is made by melting together 
pitch, resin and turpentine, and agitating the mixture with 
water. 

Effects and Uses. — This is a gentle rubefacient, producing 
a slight degree of inflammation and serous effusion, without 
separating the cuticle. It occasionally produces a papillary 
or vesicular eruption ; and sometimes, though rarely, occasions 
painful vesication and even ulceration. It is applied in the 
form of plaster to the chest in chronic and sub-acute pulmo- 
nary disorders, to the loins in lumbago, to the joints in chronic 
articular affections, and for the relief of local rheumatic pains 
in other parts. 

Emplastrum picis Burgundies [Burgundy pitch plaster) 
consists of 9 parts of Burgundy pitch melted with 1 part of 
yellow wax, which is used to give consistence to the pitch. 
Umplastrum picis cum cantharide [pitch plaster with can- 
tharides) consists of 92 parts of Burgundy pitch melted with 
8 parts of cerate of cantharides; this is commonly called the 
warming plaster, and is a more active rubefacient than Bur- 
gundy pitch, though it does not usually blister. The iron 
plaster, galbanum plaster and opium plaster all contain 
Burgundy pitch. 

PIX CANADENSIS — CANADA PITCH. 

This is the prepared resinous exudation from Abies cana- 
densis, or Hemlock Spruce [Nat. Ord. Coniferae), a very lofty 
evergreen tree of Canada and the northern parts of the United 
States. The pitch (sometimes called hemlock gum) is a spon- 
taneous exudation on the old trees. The portions of bark upon 
which it hardens are stripped from the tree and boiled, and the 
melted pitch is skimmed from the surface of the water. It 
undergoes a further purification in the shops by melting and 
straining, and is found in hard, brittle, opaque masses, of a 
dark yellowish-brown colour, a weak, peculiar odour and 
scarcely any taste. It is more readily softened by heat than 
Burgundy pitch, and is therefore sometimes a less convenient 



EPISPASTICS. 425 

application. Its constituents are resins and a minute portion 
of volatile oil. Its effects and uses are the same as those of 
Burgundy pitch. 

Emplastrum picis Canadensis [Canada pitch plaster), some- 
times called hemlock pitch plaster, consists of 9 parts of Canada 
pitch melted with 1 part of yellow wax. 

Many other acrid substances are occasionally employed as 
rubefacients. Ginger (vide p. 210), Black Pepper (vide p. 
205) and Garlic (vide p. 332) are particularly deserving of 
mention. A gentle counter-irritant, often used to the epigas- 
tric region to relieve vomiting, is the spice plaster, which is 
made by mixing two ounces of powdered ginger with an ounce 
of powdered cloves and cinnamon, each, and two drachms of 
capsicum, adding half a fluidounce of tincture of ginger and 
honey enough for proper consistence. 

EPISPASTICS. 

Epispastics, called also Vesicants and Blisters, are medicines 
which, when applied to the skin, produce inflammation, accom- 
panied by effusion of serum beneath the cuticle. Many of the 
rubefacients will blister if kept on the skin a sufficient length 
of time ; and, on the other hand, the action of vesicants may 
be made not to extend beyond rubefaction. The inflammation 
of the skin caused by vesicants is erysipelatous in its charac- 
ter, and may result in suppuration, and even sloughing or gan- 
grene. In inflammation of the dermoid tissues, as rubeola and 
scarlatina, in typhus under certain circumstances, and in ex- 
treme infancy, vesicants may produce serious consequences. 

This class of agents is employed — 1. As local stimulants, 
in the cure of internal inflammations. Different explanations 
have been offered of the antiphlogistic influence of blisters, 
some therapeutists ascribing it to a derivative or revellent ac- 
tion, by determining vascular and nervous energy to the seat 
of their operation, but it is more probably due to a stimulant 
effect extended to the capillary vessels of the inflamed organ, 



426 MATERIA MEDICA — IRRITANTS. 

and experience has shown that, for the relief of internal in- 
flammation, they cannot be applied too near the affected organ. 
In affections of the head, blisters are pre-eminently useful. 2. 
To substitute a healthy therapeutic inflammatory action, which 
subsides spontaneously, for a morbid action existing in the part 
to which they are applied. In this way vesicants are used for 
the cure of various cutaneous eruptions. 3. To relieve pain, 
which they do partly by a stimulant and partly by a substitu- 
tive influence. 4. To break up a train of morbid associations 
by the powerful impression which they make on the nervous 
system, as in the cure of intermittent fever, spasmodic diseases, 
etc. 5. To stimulate the absorbing or secreting vessels of 
parts contiguous to the seat of their application ; in this way 
they are useful in promoting the absorption of dropsical effu- 
sions, in the treatment of ununited fracture, etc. 6. As gen- 
eral stimulants, in typhoid conditions of the system, coma, 
syncope, etc. 7. As local stimulants, in threatened gangrene, 
paralysis, etc. 8. As evacuants, chiefly for the purpose of 
local depletion. 9. In retrocedent gout, and in retrocession 
of the exanthematous eruptions. 10. To prepare a surface for 
the endermic application of medicines. 

CANTHARIS — CANTHARIDES. 

Cantharis vesicatoria, termed also Lytta vesicatoria, the 
Spanish Fly, is . a cylindrical insect, from six to ten lines in 
length by two or three in breadth, with a large cordate head, 
an oblong body, and elytra, or wing-cases, of a beautiful 
shining golden-green colour. It is found most abundantly in 
Spain, Italy and the south of France, but occurs in all the 
temperate parts of Europe, and in western Asia. The Spanish 
flies swarm on certain trees and shrubs, and may be detected 
at a considerable distance by their strong fetid odour, which 
resembles that of mice. They make their appearance in May 
and June, and are collected in these months by persons pro- 
tected by masks and gauntlets, who beat or shake them from 
the trees on which they lodge, and receive them, as they fall, 



CANTHARIDES. 427 

upon linen cloths spread underneath. They are plunged into 
hot vinegar and water, or exposed to the vapour of boiling 
vinegar, and are afterwards dried in the sun or by drying - 
stoves. When perfectly dry they are packed in canisters, 
which are carefully closed so as to exclude atmospheric moist- 
ure. They are usually imported into this country from some 
Mediterranean port. A highly-esteemed variety comes from 
south Russia, through St. Petersburg, which is distinguished 
by the larger size and copper colour of the flies. 

In the dried state, cantharides retain their form, colour, 
odour, etc. ; their taste is acrid, burning and urinous ; their 
powder is of a grayish-brown colour, interspersed with shining 
green particles. If exposed to moisture they are soon de- 
composed, most speedily when powdered. As, moreover, the 
powder is liable to adulterations, they should be always pur- 
chased whole, and should be powdered as they are wanted for 
use. They are liable to be attacked by mites, which destroy 
the interior soft parts : the best mode of preserving them is to 
expose them, in bottles, to the heat of boiling water, which 
destroys the eggs of the insect. A little camphor or ammonium 
carbonate, or a few drops of strong acetic acid or of chloro- 
form, added to the flies, are also recommended as preservatives. 

The most important constituents of cantharides are a volatile 
oil, upon which the odour depends, and a neutral crystalline 
substance, termed cantharidin, which is the vesicating principle. 
Cantharidin is inodorous, tasteless, soluble in ether, chloro- 
form, the oils, acetic acid and boiling alcohol, and nearly in- 
soluble in water and cold alcohol ; but notwithstanding the 
insolubility of cantharidin, watery and alcoholic solutions of 
cantharides possess the medicinal properties of the insect, — 
the cantharidin being rendered soluble by combination with a 
yellow colouring matter in the insect. Cantharidin (C 10 H 12 O 4 ), 
by the aid of heat, in the presence of water, may be made to 
combine with the alkalies, the cantharidin becoming converted 
into cantharidic acid (C 10 H 14 O 5 ). 

Physiological Effects. — Cantharides are an acrid stimulant. 
Taken internally, in small doses, they excite the secretion of 



428 MATERIA MEDICA — IRRITANTS. 

the kidneys, and sometimes produce more or less irritation of 
the genito-urinary passages, evinced by strangury, priapism, 
pain and occasionally the discharge of bloody urine. In 
large doses they produce violent gastro-enteric and genito- 
urinary inflammation; and in excessive doses prove fatal, with 
convulsions, tetanus, delirium and other cerebro-spinal symp- 
toms. Twenty-four grains have occasioned death. In cases of 
poisoning, after the stomach has been emptied, opiates, demul- 
cents and stimulants are to be resorted to; but oils are to be 
avoided. Applied to the skin, cantharides produce inflamma- 
tion, which terminates in the secretion of serum* under the 
cuticle. Even when they are externally applied their constitu- 
tional effects, as strangury, tenesmus, etc., are frequently 
manifested. 

Medicinal Uses. — The indications which cantharides are 
capable of fulfilling, when administered internally as a diuretic, 
emmenagogue, etc., have been already noticed (see tincture, p. 
329). Their chief use is as an external application, to produce 
blisters ; but they are sometimes employed also externally as 
rubefacients, for the purpose of local or general stimulation in 
low forms of disease. Cantharides are preferred to all other 
substances as epispastics, and they are used for all the medi- 
cinal purposes that are within the range of this class of medi- 
cines. 

The following are the forms under which Spanish flies are 
used externally : 

Ceratum cantharidis (cantharides cerate), commonly known 
as blistering cerate, is made by mixing powdered cantharides 
(35 parts) with melted wax and resin (each 20 parts), and 
lard (25 parts). This is the preparation usually employed to 
raise a blister. It can be applied without the aid of heat, and 
should be spread on soft leather or linen or adhesive plaster, 
and covered with gauze or unsized paper. From four to twelve 
hours is the period for which the cerate should be applied ; on 
the scalp a longer application may be required. For an ordi- 
nary impression, and where the cutaneous sensibility is not 
impaired by disease, it need not be kept on more than four or 



CANTHARIDES. 429 

five hours. In cases of children less time is required for the 
application of the cerate, and great caution is necessary in 
applying it to infants. A poultice of bread and milk or flax- 
seed meal should be afterwards applied, which usually produces 
vesication if the action of the blister has not extended beyond 
rubefaction. If it be desirable to heal the blistered surface 
immediately, cotton-wadding or cerate may be placed over it, 
after the serum has been allowed to escape. To maintain the 
discharge, the cuticle should be removed and basilicon ointment 
applied ; if the surface require further irritation, the ointments of 
savine, mez^ereon or cantharides may be used. The open or per- 
petual blister is, how T ever, not required for ordinary antiphlogis- 
tic purposes ; and indeed, as a general rule, the blistered surface 
should be allowed to heal as speedily as possible. In case of 
excessive pain, a poultice of bread-crumb and lead- water, with 
morphine sulphate gr. J mixed in it, or a starch poultice or 
lime liniment, is a soothing application. Gf-oulard's Cerate is 
an excellent application to heal obstinate ulcers from blisters. 
For the relief of strangury, diluents and diuretics are proper, 
as flaxseed tea, with sweet spirit of nitre, decoction of uva ursi, 
etc., and an opium or morphia suppository if the symptoms 
are severe. Ceratum extracti cantharidis {cerate of extract 
of cantharides) differs chiefly from the common cerate in being 
made with an alcoholic extract of the flies instead of the flies 
themselves ; it is said to be more active than the former prep- 
aration. To prepare it, 30 parts of cantharides are to be per- 
colated to exhaustion with stronger alcohol, evaporated to the 
consistence of a soft extract, and mixed with 15 parts of resin, 
35 parts of yellow wax and 35 parts of lard (melted together). 
Ethereal, alcoholic, hydro- alcoholic and watery extracts of can- 
tharides have been suggested as substitutes for the hlistering 
cerate, and, mixed with wax and spread on thin cloth or paper, 
are termed vesicating taffetas. Linimentum cantharidis {lin- 
iment of cantharides) consists of cantharides (15 per cent.) 
dissolved in oil of turpentine ; it is a prompt stimulating lin- 
iment in low fevers, and may be applied to the skin to prepare 
it for the action of the blistering cerate. Collodium cum can- 



430 MATERIA MEDICA — IRRITANTS. 

tharide {collodion ivith cantharides), or cantharidal collodion, 
is made by percolating cantharides with commercial chloroform 
until the cantharides are exhausted, evaporating the liquid thus 
obtained, and dissolving the residue in flexible collodion. It 
should be kept in a cool place. It furnishes a very convenient 
mode of blistering a sm all irregular surface, and is applied by 
means of a camel's-hair brush, in successive layers, which 
should be covered with a piece of oiled silk. Charta can- 
tharidis {cantharides paper) is made by boiling gently a mix- 
ture of 8 parts of white wax, 3 parts of spermaceti, 4 parts of 
olive oil, 1 part of Canada turpentine and cantharides each, in 
10 parts of water, and, after filtration, passing strips of paper 
over the surface of the mixture, which, when dry, are cut into 
rectangular strips. The cantharidal preparations are used 
externally to promote the growth of the hair. Dupuytren s 
Pomatum is a tincture made with cantharides, 5i, and alcohol, 
f §i, incorporated with nine parts of lard. 



CANTHARIS VITTATA — POTATO FLIES. 

Several" species (not officinal) of cantharis are found in the 
United States, and are good substitutes for C. vesicatoria. 
C. vittata, or the Potato Fly, is most used. It resembles the 
Spanish fly in shape, but is rather smaller, being about six 
lines in length, with black elytra or wing-cases, and inhabits 
chiefly the potato plant. It contains cantharidin. 

AQUA AMMONIA — WATER OF AMMONIA. 

Stronger Water of Ammonia {vide p. 200) may be used for 
the purpose of speedy vesication. It is more rapid, but much 
more painful, than cantharides. Five parts of this, mixed 
with spirit of camphor 2 parts and spirit of rosemary 1 part, 
has been used as a prompt vesicant, under the name of Gran- 
ville's Lotion. A piece of flannel, saturated with the liniment, 
is applied to the skin, which it will generally blister in from 
three to ten minutes. Gondrefs Vesicating Ointment is made 



ESCHAROTICS. 431 

by melting together 2 parts of expressed oil of almond and 32 
parts of lard, and adding to this mixture 17 parts of stronger 
water of ammonia ; it will vesicate in ten minutes. Ammonia 
is applied locally as an antidote to the poison of venomous 
reptiles and insects. 

SUPPURANTS. 

OLEUM TIGLII — CROTON OIL. 

Croton Oil (vide p. 306), when rubbed on the skin, pro- 
duces rubefaction, accompanied by a pustular eruption. It is 
used as an application to the throat and chest in sub-acute or 
chronic laryngeal and bronchial affections, and to rheumatic 
joints. It may be applied undiluted, or mixed with one, two 
or three parts of olive oil or oil of turpentine, according to the 
susceptibility of the skin. 

UNGUENTUM ANTIM0NII — ANTIMONIAL OINTMENT. 

This ointment consists of 1 part of antimonium and potas- 
sium tartrate mixed with 4 parts of lard. The peculiar 
eruptive effects of tartar emetic have been already noticed (p. 
228 and 231). It may be used in the form of ointment or 
solution, in the same cases as croton oil, but it is a more pain- 
ful and permanent application. 

ESCHAROTICS. 

Escharotics (from Ecxapa, an escJiar), called also Cauterants, 
are medicines which destroy the structure and vitality of the 
parts to which they are applied. The eschar which their ap- 
plication produces is followed by inflammation and suppura- 
tion of the surrounding tissues, by which the slough is separated 
from the living parts. 

They are employed — 1. To effect the destruction of morbid 
growths, warts, condylomata, polypi, fungous granulations, etc. 



432 MATERIA MEDICA — IRRITANTS. 

2. To decompose the virus of rabid and venomous animals, 
and of chancres and malignant pustules, and to prevent their 
absorption. 3. For the cure of violent inflammation, by their 
substitutive action, as when they are applied to the mucous 
or cutaneous surfaces, in gonorrhoeal ophthalmia, erysipelas, 
poisoned parts, carbuncles, etc. 4. To stimulate indolent 
sinuses, ulcers, etc., where their influence is also of a substi- 
tutive character. 5. To open abscesses ; though for the open- 
ing of abscesses of internal viscera, as of the liver, the method 
of aspiration is to be preferred. 6. To form issues. 7. To 
remove morbid heterologous growths, as lupus, cancer, etc. 



ARGENT I NITRAS FUSUS — FUSED SILVER NITRATE. 

Lunar Caustic (described at length p. 164-166) is the most 
commonly employed of the caustics. It has the advantage of 
not liquefying when applied, and its action is therefore con- 
fined to the parts with which it is brought in contact, and is 
superficial. It is used to remove fungous granulations in 
wounds and ulcers, to destroy warts, to alter the action of 
indolent ulcers, sinuses, and fistulse, to subdue the inflamma- 
tory action of paronychia, erythema, etc., to arrest the progress 
of erysipelas and cancrum oris, to cut short variolous pustules, 
to cure skin diseases by a substitutive action, and in inflam- 
mations of mucous membranes. In dilutions of various 
strengths it is resorted to in every variety of inflammation of 
the mucous membranes ; when a full impression is desired, a 
solution of gr. xx-xxxin distilled water foj may be employed; 
for ordinary purposes, gr. ij to water foj. The diluted silver 
nitrate (vide p. 166) is also used externally.- 

POTASS A. 

Caustic Potassa is prepared by the rapid evaporation of Solu- 
tion of Potassa (vide p. 394) with heat. While in the state of 
fusion, it is received into cylindrical iron moulds, and it occurs 
in the form of sticks, of a brownish, grayish or bluish colour, 



POTASSA. 433 

a fibrous fracture, the odour of slacking lime, and a caustic, 
urinous taste. It dissolves in alcohol and in less than its 
weight of water, and attracts both moisture and carbonic acid 
rapidly from the air. It is more or less impure as found in 
the shops. By digestion in alcohol it is freed from impurities 
insoluble in this menstruum (as the potassium carbonates), and 
it may be afterwards obtained quite white and pure by evap- 
oration ; it is then termed alcoholic potassa. The potassa of 
the shops is a hydrate, consisting of the elements of water and 
potassa. 

Effects and Uses. — It is the most powerful known escharotic, 
and differs from lunar caustic in extending its action to a con- 
siderable depth beneath the surface to which it is applied. It 
is used chiefly to form issues, to destroy the virus of chancres 
and of malignant pustules and that from the bites of venom- 
ous reptiles and rabid animals, and sometimes also to arrest the 
sloughing of carbuncles, and, from its deep-reaching action, it 
is preferred to lunar caustic in these cases ; applied to the 
cutaneous surface, in cases of phlegmon, threatened carbuncle, 
etc., it will sometimes avert the progress of inflammation. It 
is a good application in cases of rodent ulcer, the superficial 
forms of epithelioma generally, and in lupus, the diseased tissue 
having been removed with the knife as thoroughly as possible 
previous to the application of the caustic. When it is applied 
to the skin, this should be covered with linen spread with ad- 
hesive plaster, having a hole the size of the spot to be cauter- 
ized. A solution (ojss to f§ij of water) is used as a rube- 
facient. 

Potassa cum Calce (Potassa with Lime) is prepared by 
rubbing up equal parts of potassa and lime. It is a grayish- 
white powder, which is sometimes made into a paste with a 
little alcohol, and is termed Vienna Paste ; it has been also 
formed into sticks. The presence of lime renders this a milder, 
less deliquescent and more manageable caustic than potassa ; 
it is a favourite application to chancres. 
28 



434 MATERIA MEDICA — IRRITANTS. 

SODA. 

Caustic Soda is prepared by the rapid evaporation of Solu- 
tion of Soda (vide p. 395) until ebullition ceases and the soda 
melts ; when it has congealed, it is broken into grayish-white, 
opaque, brittle fragments, which are very corrosive, very sol- 
uble in water, soluble in alcohol, and deliquescent, though, 
unlike potassa, it does not become permanently liquid, but 
after a time effloresces. It is employed for the same cauterant 
purposes as potassa, than which it is somewhat milder in action. 
London Paste is made by rubbing up equal parts of soda and 
lime. 

ACIDUM CHROMICUM — CHROMIC ACID. 

Chromic Acid (Cr0 3 ) is obtained by the reaction of sulphuric 
acid upon a solution of potassium bichromate. It is properly 
chromic anhydride, and occurs in the form of anhydrous, deep- 
red, needleform crystals, of an acid, metallic taste ; they are 
deliquescent, 1 and very soluble in water, with which they form 
an orange-yellow solution. 

Effects and Uses. — This is an eschar otic of great power, 
decomposing the tissues by its rapid oxidizing action. Used 
in the form of paste, or solution more or less diluted, it is a 
most efficacious application to lupus, morbid growths and ex- 
crescences, as syphilitic condylomata, etc. It gives less pain 
than other caustics ; but it is to be used with caution, especially 
near delicate parts like the eye, as its action is deeply pene- 
trating. The solution may be made of the strength of from 
100 grains up to a troyounce to a fluidounce of water ; and is 
to be applied by means of a pencil or glass rod. Solutions of 
chromic acid in glycerin, which have been used, are liable to 
explode if the reagents are mixed too quickly ; the glycerin 
should be added drop by drop. 

ACIDUM ARSENIOSUM — ARSENIOUS ACID. 

This is a powerful escharotic (vide p. 378), and is occasion- 
ally applied in lupus, onychia maligna, cancerous ulcers, and 



ZINC CHLORIDE. 435 

to change the action of indolent sinuses ; but its use is attended 
with danger. When used, it should be applied freely, as a 
large amount causes such rapid death of the tissues that ab- 
sorption is rendered impossible. It may be diluted with one 
or more parts of sulphur. 

BROMUM — BROMINE. 

Bromine is an elementary body, bearing close chemical affin- 
ities to iodine. It is a constituent of sea-water and of many 
mineral springs. In Europe it is obtained principally from 
the mother liquors of the salt mines of Stassfurt, in Germany ; 
in this country, from saline springs in western Pennsylvania, 
Ohio and West Virginia, in which it exists as magnesian 
bromide. It is a volatile, dark-red liquid (sp. gr. 3), of a 
caustic taste and a strong, disagreeable smell, sparingly sol- 
uble in water, more soluble in alcohol, and still more so in 
ether. Its effects on the system, considered chemically, are 
similar to those of chlorine. It decomposes hydrogen com- 
pounds, forming hydrobromic acid, and separating the elements 
combined with the hydrogen ; hence it is a deodorant and dis- 
infectant. On account of these properties, and because it is a 
liquid, it is a severe, rapid and thorough caustic. The vapour 
is intensely irritant to the mucous membrane, causing, when 
inhaled in sufficient quantity, laryngitis, bronchitis and pneu- 
monia. In the stomach it is a corrosive poison. In acute 
coryza, chronic nasal catarrh, ozena and hay asthma, a small 
quantity of a solution (5ss) in alcohol (Sjv) may be inhaled 
from a wide-mouthed vial with good result (Bartholow). 

Locally, in hospital gangrene, after removing the slough, it 
is the best escharotic. It is also used as a caustic in chancre 
and various forms of cancer, especially carcinoma uteri. 

ZINCI CHLORIDUM — ZINC CHLORIDE. 

This is also a powerful escharotic {vide p. 163) ; and, in addi- 
tion to its corrosive properties, it appears to exercise a greater 



436 MATERIA MEDICA — IRRITANTS. 

influence over the vital action of neighbouring parts than some 
of the other caustics. The separation of its eschar leaves very 
healthy and vigorous granulations, and it is one of the best 
applications that can be made to intractable, indolent ulcers 
and sinuses. It will cure lupus. 

LIQUOR HYDRARGYRI NITRATIS — SOLUTION OF 
MERCURIC NITRATE. 

This preparation {vide p. 367), termed also the acid nitrate 
of mercury, is a valuable caustic application to malignant ulcers, 
hospital gangrene, chancre, etc. 

HYDRARGYRI CHLORIDUM CORROSIVUM — CORROS- 
IVE CHLORIDE OF MERCURY. 

Corrosive Sublimate is more frequently used as a stimulant 
wash than as a caustic. For its properties, uses and modes of 
application, see p. 362. 

POTASSII BICHROMAS — POTASSIUM BICHROMATE. 

This salt, already noticed under the head of alteratives (vide 
p. 391), is a good caustic application, in saturated solution or 
in powder, to syphilitic and other vegetations. 

ACIDA MINERALIA — MINERAL ACIDS. 

The mineral acids (vide p. 168) are powerful escharotics, but 
are inconvenient for many uses, on account of the extension of 
their action beyond the point of application. On the other 
hand they can be made to reach the bottoms of sinuses and 
fistulse, which are inaccessible to the solid caustics. Nitric 
acid, for such purposes, has no equal in the list of escharotics ; 
it is used also to destroy warts. Properly diluted, the mineral 
acids are employed in injections, gargles, etc. ; and in the form 
of ointment, in skin diseases. 

Copper Sulphate (vide p. 160) and Alum (vide p. 191) 



MINERAL ACIDS. 437 

are mild escharotics, but are used chiefly to remove fungous 
granulations in ulcers. The actual cautery and moxa have 
been alluded to under the head of Heat (vide p. 24). 

Under this head may be considered sapo viridis and chrys- 
arobin, two remedies which, although not used as escharotics, 
are applied to the skin in certain of its diseases for their local 
irritant effect. The former has decided caustic properties, due 
to the potassa which it contains. 

Sapo Viridis — Green Soap — is a soft greenish, jelly-like 
soap, prepared from potassa and the fixed oils, very soluble in 
water and alcohol. Like all soaps, especially soft soaps, it is 
a caustic, and was introduced into medical practice by Pro- 
fessor von Hebra in the treatment of various cutaneous affec- 
tions, especially of the scaly variety. It is useful to remove 
the infiltrated patches of eczema rubrum, and for this purpose 
should be well rubbed in with a piece of flannel until all 
traces of the soap have disappeared, when the flannel is wet 
with w r ater and the rubbing again performed ; the surface 
should be then washed with clean water and carefully dried, 
when it will be found red and angry-looking, with here and 
there a minute point from which serum is oozing. Between 
the applications ointments are to be applied. Sapo viridis is 
also much used to remove scales and crusts, as in psoriasis, 
seborrhcea, etc., and in various other skin affections. 

Tinctura saponis viridis [tincture of green soap) consists 
of 65 per cent, of green soap and 2 per cent, of oil of lavender 
dissolved in alcohol. It is milder in its action than green soap, 
and is used to fulfill the same indications. 

Chrysarobinum — Chrysarobin, often improperly called 
Chrysophanic Acid — consists of a mixture of principles 
extracted from araroba or goa-powder, a substance found in 
the clefts of Andira araroba (Nat. Ord. Leguminosse). It has 
also been obtained from different species of rhubarb. It is an 
orange-yellow powder, crystallizing in needles, insoluble in 
water, only slightly soluble in alcohol, and possesses neither 
taste nor smell. 



438 MATERIA MEDICA — DEMULCENTS. 

Effects and Uses. — When applied locally, it is an irritant 
to the skin, causing irritation and inflammation accompanied 
with swelling, itching, pain, heat and sometimes a papular 
eruption, especially when applied about the head and face. 
The action is not always limited to the part to which it is 
applied, but extends to the healthy skin in the vicinity. Ob- 
servers do not agree respecting the internal effects of this drug. 
It is principally used as an external application in cases of 
skin disease due to vegetable parasites, and in psoriasis, in 
which disease the scabs soon disappear and the patches become 
white under its use. It stains the skin yellow, and should 
never be applied to the head or face on account of the liability 
to swelling and oedema of the eyelids. It has also been used 
internally. An ointment made by rubbing 10 parts of crys- 
arobin with 90 parts of benzoinated lard is officinal. 

ORDER III. — DEMULCENTS. 

Demulcents, or Lenitives, are medicines which soften and 
relax the tissues, and, when applied to irritated or inflamed 
surfaces, diminish heat, tension and pain. They consist 
chiefly of gum or mucilage, or of a mixture of these with 
saccharine and farinaceous substances, and form with water 
viscid solutions. Their constitutional effects are principally 
nutritive, though perhaps, to some extent, they relieve irritation 
in distant organs by modifying the acridity of the secretions. 
Demulcent solutions are administered internally — 1. To sheathe 
and protect the gastro-enteric surface from the injurious effects 
of irritating substances, particularly acrid poisons. 2. To 
relieve irritation and inflammation of the alimentary- canal, as 
in gastritis, enteritis, diarrhoea and dysentery ; and for this 
purpose they may be administered by either the mouth or 
rectum. 3. In catarrhal affections, in which they are probably 
useful in part by the transmission of their lubricating and 
soothing effects on the fauces and oesophagus by reflex action 
to the laryngeal and bronchial membranes, and in part by 
modifying the acridity of expectorated matters. 4. In affec- 



WATER. 439 

tions of the urinary passages, as ardor urinre, cystitis, etc., and 
in these cases they act chiefly by diminishing the acridity of 
the secretions. 5. As agreeable drinks, to quench thirst and 
promote the action of the secreting and exhaling organs in 
febrile affections. Their effects in these cases are owing 
partly to the water which they contain, to which they are 
added merely for the sake of flavour, and partly also to the 
nutrient which they furnish. When administered with the ob- 
ject of increasing the proportion of the fluid parts of the blood, 
demulcents are termed Diluents. 6. As light diet for the sick. 
7. For pharmaceutical purposes, to suspend substances insol- 
uble in water, etc. 

Externally, mucilaginous solutions are employed extensively 
to relieve the heat, swelling and pain of inflammation, wounds, 
burns, etc. ; to hasten suppuration where inflammation is too 
far advanced for resolution ; to cleanse foul and scabby ulcers ; 
to promote suppuration from granulating surfaces, etc., etc. 
Mucilaginous and amylaceous substances are applied to inflamed 
and ulcerated parts, mixed with water so as to form soft masses, 
termed cataplasms or poultices. These are useful vehicles of 
heat and moisture to the skin, and are used also as local appli- 
cations in rheumatism and gout, and for the relief of internal 
inflammation, as when applied to the chest and abdomen in 
pleurisy, bronchitis, peritonitis, dysentery, etc. Applied ex- 
ternally, this class of medicines is termed Emollients. 

AQUA — WATER. 

Water has important medicinal as well as pharmaceutical 
uses. The Pharmacopoeia directs it to be employed in the 
purest attainable state, which is rain or snow water ; for phar- 
maceutical purposes, distilled water (aqua desiillatd) should be 
used. Pure water is a transparent liquid, without colour, taste 
or smell ; but owing to its extensive solvent powers, in the 
natural state it is more or less contaminated with foreign mat- 
ters. It is now considered to be a compound by volume of 2 
atoms of hydrogen and 1 of oxygen (H 2 0). 



440 MATERIA MEDICA — DEMULCENTS. 

Effects and Uses. — Water is necessary for the solution and 
digestion of our food ; in either insufficient or excessive amount 
it may prove injurious. Thus, without a proper supply of 
water, not only the absorption of soluble matters in the stomach 
is interfered with, but also the passage of undigested substances 
into the intestines; and besides, some articles, as sugar, do not 
undergo the fermentation necessary for digestion. On the other 
hand, an excess of water taken into the stomach impairs diges- 
tion by over-dilution of the gastric juice, and will occasion the 
acetous fermentation of saccharine articles. Water is eliminated 
from the system by the intestines, skin and lungs, but chiefly 
by the kidneys ; and it is believed, in large amounts, to increase 
not only the water, but the solid constituents, of the urine ; 
hence its use as a diuretic. As it promotes both the metamor- 
phosis and construction of tissue, it may produce a valuable 
alterative effect in morbid taints of the system, and prove a 
useful adjunct to more active eliminative agents. Water is the 
basis of all drinks administered to relieve the thirst of fever 
and moderate the undue viscidity of the blood which is present 
in inflammation ; it must not be permitted in excess, however, 
as undue amounts may produce nausea, flatulence, and even 
vomiting and diarrhoea. The uses of water, as an external 
agent, have been noticed under the head of heat and cold. 

Carbonic Acid Water (H 2 C0 3 ). Water impregnated with a 
quantity of carbonic acid, equal to five times the bulk of the 
water (which may be obtained from sodium bicarbonate or 
from marble, by means of diluted sulphuric acid) often proves 
useful in allaying nausea and vomiting, and is also a good 
vehicle for some of the neutral purgative salts which are of 
unpleasant taste. It is no longer officinal. 

ACACIA — GUM ARABIC. 

Gum arabic is a gummy exudation from Acacia verek and 
other species of acacia (Nat, Ord. Leguminosse), thorny or 
prickly trees or shrubs of Africa and Arabia. The gum exudes 
either through natural cracks in the bark or through incisions 



GUM ARABIC. 441 

made to facilitate its exudation, and hardens on exposure. The 
most abundant yield is in the hot and dry weather, and is 
obtained from the sickliest trees. Several commercial varieties 
are known, as Turkey, Barbary, Senegal, India, etc., of which 
the most important are Turkey gum and Senegal gum. 1. 
Turkey gum (Kordofan gum) comes from the Levant or other 
parts of the Mediterranean, and is the kind usually found in 
the shops. It consists chiefly of small, irregular fragments, 
interspersed with larger pieces of a whitish colour, which is 
sometimes slightly tinged with yellow or reddish-yellow. It is 
lighter-coloured, more brittle, more readily soluble, and purer 
than other varieties, and is generally characterized by innumer- 
able minute fissures pervading its substance. 2. Senegal gum 
comes from the western coast of Africa. It occurs in roundish 
or oval unbroken pieces, larger, less brittle, and breaking with 
a more conchoidal fracture than those of Turkey gum, some- 
times whitish, but generally yellowish, reddish or brownish- 
red. 3. Barbary gum comes from Morocco ; it is derived, in 
part at least, from A. nilotica, and consists of two kinds, one 
resembling the Turkey, the other the Senegal gum. 4. India 
gum, though brought from India, is collected on the north- 
eastern coast of Africa and in the ports of the Red Sea. It 
is in pieces of varying size, colour and quality, and is often 
contaminated with Bassora gum, which is insoluble in water, 
Gum is also imported into England from the Cape of Good 
Hope and from Australia. All the varieties are more or less 
transparent, hard, brittle and pulverizable, and form a white 
powder. They are inodorous, with a feeble, slightly sweetish 
taste, and when pure dissolve wholly in the mouth. When 
kept in a dry place they undergo no change by time. 

Chemical Constituents. — Gum arabic consists almost wholly 
of a peculiar proximate principle, usually termed G-um, but 
latterly designated by chemists as Arabin. It is soluble in hot 
or cold water, forming a viscid solution called mucilage, and is 
insoluble in alcohol, ether and the oils. Alcohol precipitates 
gum from its aqueous solution ; lead subacetate (which is a 
delicate test), lead nitrate and solution of iron chloride also 



442 MATERIA MEDICA — DEMULCENTS. 

precipitate it from solution. Arabia (gummic or arable 
acid) (C 12 H 22 O n ) is combined with about 3 per cent, of lime, 
forming a soluble salt, calcium gummate. Gums of inferior 
transparency and solubility contain bassorin, an inert principle, 
insoluble in water and alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — Gum arabic is extensively employed, 
internally, as a demulcent in gastro-enteric inflammation, 
diarrhoea, dysentery, cases of acrid poisoning, etc. ; as a lubri- 
cant to the fauces in catarrhal affections, and also as a vehicle 
for anodynes and expectorants in cough mixtures ; and as a 
diluent in fevers and inflammatory cases. It is not now con- 
sidered to be digestible, and can scarcely rank (as formerly 
supposed) with nutrients. It is usually administered in solu- 
tion (.§i to boiling water Oj, to be given when cool) ; in cases 
of irritation of the fauces it may be taken into the mouth and 
allowed slowly to dissolve. For pharmaceutical purposes 
gum arabic is much used to suspend insoluble substances in 
water, and in making pills and lozenges. Mucilago acacias 
{mucilage of gum arabic) is used in making pills, emulsions, 
etc. ; it becomes sour by keeping. Syrupus acacias {syrup 
of gum arabic) (25 per cent, of mucilage of acacia mixed 
with 75 per cent, of syrup) is used for the same purpose. 
Mistura amygdala? {almond mixture) is made by dissolving a 
mixture of 6 parts of blanched sweet almonds, 1 part of gum 
arabic and 3 parts of sugar in 100 parts of distilled water ; 
it is a pleasant demulcent and vehicle for other medicines. 
By dissolving equal parts of sugar and gum arabic in water 
and evaporating, an agreeable demulcent is obtained, known as 
gum pectoral, which is sold as an imitation of jujube paste. 

TRAGACANTHA — TRAGACANTH. 

This is a gummy exudation from Astragalus gummifer and 
other species of astragalus (Nat. Ord. Leguminosae). They 
are small shrubs found in Persia, Asia Minor and countries 
bordering on the Levant, with numerous branches covered with 
imbricated scales and beset with spines. Tragacanth exudes 



FLAXSEED. 443 

spontaneously in the hot weather, and hardens, as it exudes, in 
forms of various shapes. It occurs in irregular tortuous flakes 
or filaments, of a whitish or yellowish-white, or occasionally a 
slightly reddish colour, somewhat translucent, resembling horn 
in appearance. It is hard and fragile, but very difficult of pul- 
verization, and has no smell and very little taste. When heated 
with water it swells and forms a paste, and if agitated with 
an additional quantity it forms a uniform mixture, from which 
it is, however, almost entirely deposited upon standing a day 
or two. It contains two constituents, one soluble in water, 
resembling arabin, but not identical with it, combined with 
calcium, the other termed tragacantliin (C 12 H 20 O 10 ). 

Effects and Uses. — Tragacanth is seldom given internally, 
on account of its difficult solubility. It is useful in suspending 
heavy insoluble powders, and answers better than gum arabic 
to impart consistence to lozenges. Mucilago iragacanthce 
(mucilage of tragacanth) — tragacanth 6 per cent, with gly- 
cerin 18 per cent, in water — is used in making pills and 
troches, and for the suspension of heavy insoluble metallic sub- 
stances. 

LIXUM — FLAXSEED. 

This is the seed of Linum usitatissimum, or Common Flax 
(Nat. Ord. Linacese), an annual plant, of the height of two 
feet, originally a native of eastern countries, but naturalized 
in Europe, and cultivated in all parts of the world. The seed 
and oil are both officinal. The seeds are about a line in length, 
oval, smooth and glossy, of a brown colour externally and 
yellowish-white within ; a variety of flax is cultivated in Ohio, 
the seeds of which are greenish-yellow. Flaxseeds are ino- 
dorous, and have an oily, mucilaginous taste. They contain 30 
or 35 per cent, of fixed oil, a large proportion of mucilaginous 
matter, vegetable albumen, and various other ingredients ; the 
mucilaginous matter, which is found chiefly in the husks of the 
seeds, consists, about one-half, of a principle soluble in cold 
water, resembling arabin, and about one-third, of a principle 
insoluble in water. The oil (oleum lini or linseed oil) is 



444 MATERIA MEDICA — DEMULCENTS. 

obtained by expression from the interior part of the seeds ; it 
is laxative in the dose of f Sj-ij, but it is chiefly used exter- 
nally, mixed with an equal amount of lime-water, as in the old 
" carron oil." 

Effects and Uses. — Decoction is an improper mode of pre- 
paring a demulcent solution of flaxseed, as boiling extracts 
part of the oil ; but it answers very well when it is used as a 
laxative enema. Ground flaxseed forms a much-used emol- 
lient poultice, which is prepared by adding the meal to boiling 
water, constantly stirring, until it makes a thin and smooth 
dough. The cake, remaining after the expression of the oil, 
retains the mucilaginous and albuminous constituents of the 
seed, and forms a food for cattle, under the name of oil-cake. 
This is used for making poultices, but it is inferior to the meal 
made from the seeds which have not been deprived of their 
oil. 

OLEUM GOSSYPII S EM IN IS — COTTON-SEED OIL. 

This is a fixed oil expressed from the seed of Gossypium 
herbaceum [vide p. 248) and other species of gossypium. It 
is subsequently purified by being bleached with alkalies and 
with sulphuric acid, and is finally obtained as a clear, pale- 
yellow oily liquid, without odour and having a bland, nut-like 
taste. It contains olein and palmitin. It is very bland, and 
may be used as a substitute for almond or olive oil. It is 
used externally as an ingredient of linimentum ammonite 
(vide p. 423), linimentum calcis (vide p. 401), linimentum 
camphoros (vide p. 98) and linimentum plumbi subacetatis (vide 
p. 189). 

ULMUS SLIPPERY-ELM BARK. 

This is the inner bark of Ulmus fulva, or Slippery Elm 
(Nat. Ord. Urticacese), a lofty indigenous tree which is found 
throughout the United States north of Carolina, and grows 
most abundantly west of the Allegheny Mountains. The inner 
bark is prepared for use by the removal of the epidermis ; it is 



MARSHMALLOW. 445 

found in the shops in long flat pieces, of a fibrous texture, 
tawny on the outer surface and reddish on the inner, of a 
peculiar but not unpleasant smell and a very mucilaginous 
taste. It affords a light grayish, fawn-coloured powder. A 
large quantity of mucilaginous matter is contained in it, which 
is yielded readily to water, also some tannic acid. Much of 
the bark lately brought into the market is inferior, containing 
but little mucilage ; it is less fibrous and more brittle than the 
genuine bark. 

Effects and Uses. — Slippery-elm bark is a valuable demul- 
cent, extensively and advantageously employed in dysentery, 
diarrhoea, genito-urinary diseases, catarrhs, etc. It is also 
highly nutritious. Externally it is an excellent emollient ap- 
plication, in the form either of infusion or of poultice made 
with the powder. It has been also recommended for the dila- 
tation of strictures and fistulae, and, made into a spongy mass, 
as a tent to dilate the os uteri. The infusion — mucilago ulmi 
{mucilage of slippery-elm bark) (§j to boiling water Oj) — may 
be used ad libitum. 



SASSAFRAS MEDULLA — SASSAFRAS PITH. 

Sassafras pith is the pith of the stems of Sassafras officinale 
(vide p. 317). It occurs in light, spongy, whitish, slender, 
cylindrical pieces, of a mucilaginous taste. It abounds in a 
gummy matter, which it yields readily to water, forming a 
limpid, viscid mucilage. This mucilage (5j to boiling water 
Oss) is a pleasant demulcent drink in dyspeptic, nephritic and 
catarrhal affections, and is much used as a soothing applica- 
tion in ophthalmia. 

ALTH^A — MARSHMALLOW. 

The root of Althaea officinalis (Nat. Ord. Malvaceae), an 
herbaceous European plant, occasionally found, too, on the 
borders of salt marshes in our own country, with ovate, soft, 
velvety, crenate leaves and pretty flesh-coloured flowers, is 



446 MATERIA MEDICA — DEMULCENTS. 

much used in Europe as a demulcent. The roots of other Malva- 
ceae are often substituted for those of the officinal roots. These 
are imported in pieces, three or four inches in length, of nearly 
the thickness of the finger, light, easily broken, white exter- 
nally, of a peculiar faint smell and a mild, mucilaginous, 
sweetish taste. The chief constituents of marshmallow are 
mucilage and starch, the former soluble in cold water, the 
latter requiring boiling water. It contains also asparagin 
(C 4 H 8 N 2 3 ,H 2 0), a crystalline principle found in asparagus 
shoots and other plants. 

Uses. — Marslimallow decoction is employed as a demulcent 
in inflammatory and irritated conditions of the mucous mem- 
branes of the respiratory, digestive and urinary organs, and 
poultices made of the bruised or powdered root are used ex- 
ternally. The si/i* up is the only officinal preparation. 

OLEUM SESAMI — OIL OF BENNE. 

This is a fixed oil expressed from the seed of Sesamuni 
indicum (Nat. Ord. Pedaliacese), an annual plant, growing to 
the height of four or five feet, with ovate-lanceolate, lobed 
leaves, reddish-white axillary flowers, and an oblong capsule 
containing small oval yellowish seeds. It is a native of India, 
but is now raised throughout Asia and in Egypt and Italy, 
also in South Carolina and in the neighbourhood of Philadel- 
phia. The seed contains a fixed oil, and the leaves yield to 
cold water a large quantity of mucilage resembling that of 
sassafras pith. This is a highly-esteemed demulcent drink, 
used in cholera infantum and infantile bowel complaints. The 
seeds are eaten as food by the negroes in Carolina, in broths, 
puddings, etc. The oil, which is inodorous, of a bland, sweet- 
ish taste, and keeps well, may be used internally or externally 
as a substitute for olive oil. 

CYDONIUM — QUINCE- SEED. 

This is the seed of Cydonia vulgaris (Nat. Ord. Rosacea), 
a native of Europe, but cultivated in the United States for the 



LIQUORICE-ROOT. 447 

fruit. The seeds are ovate, angular, reddish-brown externally, 
white within, inodorous, insipid and abound in mucilage. They 
are used externally, in solution (mucilago cydonii), two drachms 
to a pint of boiling water. 

GLYCYRRHIZA — LIQUORICE ROOT. 

This is the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra {Nat. Orel. Legu- 
minosse), a small herbaceous perennial plant,- of the countries 
around the Mediterranean. It is imported from Sicily and 
Spain ; and a portion of the Sicilian root is said to be the pro- 
duct of G. echinata. As found in the shops liquorice root is in 
long wrinkled pieces, often worm-eaten, varying from a few lines 
to more than an inch in thickness, externally grayish-brown, 
internally yellowish, without smell, and of a sweet, mucilagi- 
nous, sometimes slightly acrid taste. The best pieces are of 
the brightest yellow internally. The powder is grayish-yellow, 
or, if it is powdered with the epidermis removed, pale sulphur- 
yellow. The Russian liquorice of commerce is said to be 
derived chiefly from G. glandulifera ; the root has a reddish 
tint and a scurfy surface, which distinguish it from the 
smoother one of G. glabra. The constituents of liquorice 
root are, a peculiar transparent yellow, uncrystallizable sugar, 
termed glycyrrhizin (C 16 H 24 6 ) (which is scarcely soluble in 
cold water, but soluble in boiling water and alcohol, and is a 
glucoside, splitting up, when warmed with a dilute acid or 
upon being boiled, into glycyrretin and sugar), starch, aspar- 
agin, an acrid resin, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — A decoction of liquorice root (a troy- 
ounce boiled for a few minutes in water Oj) is a useful demul- 
cent in dysenteric, catarrhal and nephritic affections; it is also 
added to decoctions of acrid substances, to cover their taste 
and acridity. It should be made of the root deprived of its 
cortical part, which is acrid and without demulcent virtues; by 
long boiling the acrid resin is extracted. The powder is used 
in making pills (see p. 33). A fluid extract is officinal, and 
is a useful addendum to cough mixtures and to disguise the taste 
of ammonium carbonate or chloride. 



448 MATERIA MEDICA — DEMULCENTS.' 

Glycyrrhizinum Ammoniatum (Ammoniated G-lycyrrhizin) 
is prepared by macerating and then percolating liquorice root 
with water of ammonia, precipitating with sulphuric acid, 
washing the precipitate and dissolving in water of ammonia 
and spreading on glass plates to dry. It may be used for the 
same purposes as the other preparations. 

Extractum Glycyrrhiz^: {Liquorice) is made by the 
evaporation of a decoction of the half-dried root. It comes to 
this country chiefly from Leghorn and Messina, and in part, 
also, from Spain ; good liquorice is prepared, too, in New York 
and England. Crude liquorice, when good, occurs in black, 
flattened, cylindrical rolls, about an inch in diameter, which 
are dry, brittle, with a shining fracture, of a very sweet, pecul- 
iar, slightly acrid taste, and are quite soluble in water. It is, 
however, much sophisticated, and for internal use is generally 
refined by dissolving the impure extract in water and water of 
ammonia, without ebullition, straining the solution and evap- 
orating ; sugar is often mixed with it, and sometimes mucilage 
or glue. Refined liquorice (extractum glycyrrhizce purum) 
is in small cylindrical pieces, not thicker than a pipe-stem. 
Liquorice is a pleasant demulcent, much used as an addition to 
cough mixtures and lozenges and to acrid infusions and decoc- 
tions. Mistura glycyrrhizce composita (compound mixture 
of liquorice), commonly called brown mixture, consists of 
pure liquorice, gum arabic, sugar, each half a troyounce ; 
paregoric, f^ij ; antimonial wine, foj ; sweet spirit of nitre, 
f 5ss ; water, f Sxij ; dose f §ss. Liquorice enters into the com- 
position of several troches already noticed. 



CETRARIA — ICELAND MOSS. 

Cetraria islandica, or Iceland Moss (Nat. Ord. Lichenes), 
is a foliaceous, erect lichen, from two to four inches high, 
found in the northern latitudes and mountainous districts of 
the new and old continents. It is obtained principally from 
Norway and Iceland, but is said to be abundant also in New 
England. As found in the shops it consists of irregularly- 



IRISH MOSS. 449 

lobed and channelled coriaceous leaves, fringed at their edges 
with rigid hairs, of a brownish or grayish-white colour, darker 
on the upper surface, and sometimes marked with blood-red 
spots. It is almost odourless, and has a bitter, mucilaginous 
taste; its powder is whitish-gray. It gives up its virtues to 
boiling water, and consists chiefly of a kind of amylaceous 
matter (which is coloured blue by iodine, and is termed lich- 
enin — C 12 H 20 O 10 ), and a bitter principle termed cetrarin or cet- 
raric acid (C 18 H 16 8 ) ; it contains, besides, other principles. 

Effects and Uses. — Iceland moss is a demulcent tonic, and 
is also highly nutritious. It is adapted to cases requiring a 
light aliment combined with a mild and acceptable tonic ; and 
from its demulcent properties has a soothing influence in 
inflammations of the various mucous membranes. It is chiefly 
used in chronic affections of the pulmonary and digestive 
organs, in the form of decoction (decoctum cetrarice), which may 
be taken ad libitum. By maceration in water or a weak 
alkaline solution, Iceland moss may be deprived of its bitter 
principle ; and it is then used as a mild nutritive demulcent. 

CHONDRUS — -IRISH MOSS. 

Chondrus crispus, Carrageen or Irish Moss {Nat, Ord. Algae) 
is a marine alga found chiefly on the west coast of Ireland, 
and also on the coast of New England ; it is prepared for use 
by washing, bleaching and drying. It is also prepared from 
Chondrus mammilosus. As found in the shops it consists of 
fronds from two to three or four inches long, mostly yellowish 
or dirty-white, but intermixed with purplish-red portions, nearlv 
inodorous, and of a mucilaginous taste. It swells up in warm 
water, and is almost entirely dissolved when boiled. Its chief 
constituent is a peculiar mucilaginous principle, for which the 
term Carrageenin has been proposed ; and it contains also 
some mucus, resins, etc. 

Effects and Uses. — It is a very agreeable nutritive demul- 
cent, useful in bowel complaints and pectoral affections. It 
may be given in the form of decoction (half a troyounce to 
29 



450 MATERIA MEDICA — DEMULCENTS. 

water Ojss boiled to Oj) flavoured with lemon juice and sugar ; 
or it may be made with milk or cream into blanc-mange, which 
forms an excellent light diet for the sick. By saturating two 
superimposed layers of wadding with a solution of chondrus, 
and drying them in a stove after they have been submitted to 
strong pressure, a sheet of the consistence of cardboard is 
produced, which, when soaked in hot water, makes an excellent 
poultice. 

AMYLUM — STARCH. 

This term is applied by the Pharmacopoeia to the fecula of 
the seed of Triticum vulgare, the well-known wheat [Nat, Ord. 
Graminacese). It is a proximate principle, however, which 
pervades the vegetable kingdom, being found in various parts 
of plants, especially in seeds, tubers and bulbous roots. It is 
obtained by bringing the substances in which it exists to a 
state of minute division, agitating or washing them with cold 
water, straining or pouring off the liquid, and allowing it to 
stand until the fecula which it holds in suspension has subsided. 
It occurs as a white, opaque, odourless, tasteless powder, or in 
columnar masses of a crystalline aspect, and produces a pecul- 
iar sound when compressed between the fingers. It is insoluble 
in alcohol, ether and cold water. Examined under the micro- 
scope, starch is seen to consist of minute cells or granules, 
varying in size and shape in the different varieties of amylaceous 
substances. The envelope of these granules is insoluble in cold 
water, but is ruptured by heat, so that the interior portion is 
exposed and becomes dissolved ; hence starch is said to be 
insoluble in cold, but soluble in boiling, water. Starch is 
C 6 H 10 O 5 . By the action of heat, or by long boiling with 
diluted sulphuric or muriatic acid, it is converted into dextrin, 
an isomeric soluble principle, and by the same process this may 
be converted into grape sugar. The same change takes place 
in grains, after germination, through the agency of a nitro- 
genous principle termed diastase. The test for starch is 
iodine, which forms with starch-solution a rich blue iodide ; 



LARD. -451 

with bromine starch strikes an orange precipitate ; nitric acid 
converts it into oxalic acid. 

^Effects and Uses. — The starchy or farinaceous articles form 
an important group of nutrients. Their assimilation is effected 
by the albuminous principles of the digestive tube (salivin, 
pancreatin, etc.), which change starch into grape sugar. 
This is converted in part into fatty tissue, and is partly fer- 
mented into lactic acid, which acts as a calefacient. Starch is 
used externally as a dusting powder to excoriated surfaces, as 
an emollient poultice, and in solution as a vehicle for laudanum 
as an enema. It is the antidote for iodine. 

Glycemtum Amyli (Glycerite of Starch) [Plasma) contains 
10 per cent, of starch thoroughly mixed with glycerin and 
dissolved by the aid of heat. It is an excellent vehicle for 
astringent applications in ophthalmic surgery (Bartholow), and 
is an excellent application to allay the heat, burning and itch- 
ing of* the skin in scarlatina and small-pox ; in the latter it is 
particularly pleasant to the patient, and has as much effect in 
preventing pitting as any other application (H. M.). It is used 
as a substitute for ointments, and is a good excipient for pills. 
Amylum iodatum {iodized starch) has been already spoken of 
(vide p. 371). 

Ichthyocolla (Isinglass), prepared from the swimming 
bladder of Acipenser huso (the sturgeon) and of other fishes, 
is the purest form of gelatin. Court plaster is made by coat- 
ing oiled silk with a solution of isinglass. Gelatin is also used 
as an article of diet, and is employed in pharmacy to make 
capsules for the administration of disagreeable liquid medicines, 
and as a coating for pills. 

For external use, the animal fats are employed as emollients. 

Adeps (Lard) is the prepared fat of Sus scrofa (the hog) ; 
the internal fat of the abdomen is preferred, which is washed, 
melted and strained. Below the temperature of 90° it occurs 
as a soft, white solid, which for medicinal use should be free 



452 MATERIA MEDICA — DEMULCENTS. 

from saline matter. It consists of olein and stearin. It is used 
in pharmacy as an addition to poultices, and as an inunction 
in the exanthemata, particularly scarlatina. Cerate (ceratum) 
is made by melting together 7 parts of lard and 3 parts 
of white wax, Unguentum {ointment) is made by melt- 
ing together 4 parts of lard and 1 part of yellow wax. 
Lard oil (the olein of lard) is a good vehicle for anodyne 
enemata. 

Adeps benzoinatus (benzoinated lard), formerly termed 
henzoinated ointment, consists of benzoin 2 parts in 100 parts 
of lard. 

Sevum (Suet) is the prepared fat of Ovis aries (the sheep). 
It is composed almost exclusively of stearin, but also contains 
some palmitin, olein and hircin. 

Cetaceum (Spermaceti) is a peculiar concrete substance 
obtained from Physeter macrocephalus (the spermaceti whale). 
It consists almost entirely of cetyl palmitate (C 16 H 33 C 16 H 31 2 ) 
or cetine, but recently has been shown to contain also ethers of 
stearic, myristic and laurostearic acids ; and of the alcohols 
lethal (C 12 H 26 0), methal (C 14 H 30 O), ethal (C 16 H 34 ) and stethal 
(C 18 H 38 0). Spermaceti cerate (ceratum cetacei) is made by 
melting together 10 parts of spermaceti and 35 parts of 
white wax, and then adding 55 parts of olive oil, previously 
heated. Ointment of rose-water (see p. 184) contains sper- 
maceti. 

Cera Flava (Yellow Wax) is a peculiar concrete sub- 
stance prepared by Apis mellifica (the honey bee). 

Cera Alba ( White Wax) is yellow wax bleached. They 
are used chiefly in making cerates, ointments and plasters. 



ACIDUM OLEICUM — OLEIC ACID. 

Oleic acid (HC 18 H 33 2 ) exists in nature combined with 
glycerin as olein. It is obtained in an impure state as a 



OIL OF THEOBROMA. 453 

secondary product at stearin candle manufactories. To purify 
the acid, it is cooled to 14° F. and expressed ; the solid por- 
tion melted and treated with lead protoxide ; the lead oleate is 
dissolved out by ether, decanted, and shaken with hydrochloric 
acid, which decomposes it ; the ethereal layer is decanted and 
evaporated. The oleic acid thus obtained is still contaminated 
with a little oxyoleic acid, which is difficult to separate. Oleic 
acid is a yellowish oily liquid, which becomes brownish and 
rancid by exposure to the air, without smell or taste, soluble in 
alcohol, ether and cold sulphuric acid, but insoluble in water. 
The oleates of the alkaline metals are soft soluble soaps ; those 
of the earthy metals are insoluble in water, but soluble in alco- 
hol and ether. 

Oleic acid is used principally in preparing the oleates of ver- 
atrine [vide p. 222) and of mercury {vide p. 360). 

OLEUM THEOBROMA — OIL OF THEOBROMA. 

This oil, commonly known as Batter of Cacao, is the fixed 
oil expressed from the seed of Theobroma cacao (Nat. Orel. 
Sterculiacese), a handsome tree, from twelve to twenty feet in 
height, growing in Mexico, the West Indies, Central America 
and South America. The fruit is an ovate-oblong capsule or 
berry, half a foot in length, with a thick, coriaceous, ligneous 
rind, inclosing a whitish pulp, in which numerous ovate seeds 
are embedded, about the size of an almond. Separated from 
the matter in which they are enveloped, these constitute the 
chocolate-nuts of commerce (see p. 116). They contain fixed 
oil {cacao butter), theobromia, and other matters. Theobromia 
is a nitrogenous alkaloid, analogous to caffeina. Cacao butter 
is obtained by expression, decoction or the action of a solvent. 
It occurs in whitish or yellowish oblong cakes, of the con- 
sistence of tallow and of an agreeable odour and taste. It 
contains a large proportion of stearin, also palmitin and olein. 
It is used in pharmacy for coating pills, and also largely in 
preparing suppositories, for which it is well adapted from its 
consistence and blandness. 



454 MATERIA MEDICA — DEMULCENTS. 

GLYCERINUM — GLYCERIN. 

This is a substance which exists in oils in combination with 
the fatty acids (stearic, margaric, oleic, etc.), and is liberated 
from them when they unite with bases in the process of sapon- 
ification. It was first obtained in the process for making lead 
plaster, by mixing litharge (lead protoxide) with olive oil and 
boiling water, by which the fatty acid unites with the lead and 
is precipitated, and the glycerin remains in solution. It is 
freed from any lead it may contain by means of a stream of 
sulphuretted hydrogen gas, and is afterwards filtered through 
animal charcoal ; or, as it is now usually made more directly, 
by decomposing fats and distilling by steam under high 
pressure. Glycerin (C 3 H 5 3HO), or Glyceric Alcohol, is the 
hydrate of Glyeeril, Grlycil, or Propenyl, and is a triatomic 
alcohol. It is a thick, syrupy liquid, colourless or straw- 
coloured, unctuous to the touch, inodorous, and of a sharp, 
sweet taste. When pure its sp. gr. is 1*26, when it contains 
95 per cent, of absolute glycerin ; the Pharmacopoeia directs 
its sp. gr. to be 1*25. It is soluble in oils, alcohol and water, 
but is insoluble in ether and chloroform, and does not evap- 
orate when exposed to the air, but absorbs one half its weight 
of water. It has remarkable solvent properties, dissolving 
iodine, bromine, the alkalies, tannic and other vegetable acids, 
a large number of neutral salts, and many organic principles. 
Officinal solutions of medicinal substances in glycerin are 
termed glycerites (glycerita). 

Effects and Uses. — Glycerin is a bland and unirritating sub- 
stance. It has the capacity of diffusing itself freely over and 
through organic matter, incorporating itself between organic 
molecules, by which it is absorbed and appropriated. It has 
been used internally as a nutrient and demulcent, and has been 
deemed of value in cachectic, strumous and asthenic conditions 
in children, but the weight of opinion is against its efficacy as 
an alterative. It is as a topical application that it is chiefly 
employed. As an enema in dysentery, to soften hardened 
mucus in the air passages, in various cutaneous affections, in 



PETROLEUM OINTMENT. 455 

diphtheria, in deafness attended with dryness of the meatus, 
and as a vehicle or solvent for active medicines, glycerin is a 
valuable article. Guzzo (Gaillard's Med. J., March, 1882) 
recommends the following treatment to prevent extensive 
cicatrization following burns : apply to the whole burned sur- 
face a piece of lint thickly spread with cold cream and covered 
with a compress two inches thick saturated with glycerin 
(freshly wet from three to six times a day ; the whole dressing 
to be changed daily), and covered with a dry compress and 
bandage. This treatment failed in only one of fifty-two cases 
(Archiv. Dermat., Oct. 1882). 

Grlyceritum amyli (glycerite of starch) has been already 
considered (vide p. 451). 

G-lyceritum vitelli (glycerite of yolk of eggs) (glyconin) 
is made by mixing thoroughly 45 parts of fresh yolk of eggs 
with do parts of glycerin. It is a good vehicle for the admin- 
istration of cod-liver oil, a few drops of some aromatic being 
added as a flavouring ingredient. 



PETROLATUM — PETROLEUM OINTMENT. 

Petrolatum is a mixture of hydrocarbons obtained by dis- 
tilling the lighter and more volatile portions from American 
petroleum, and purifying the remainder. Mineral oils have 
been known from time immemorial, and were obtained by the 
ancients from Sicily, the Ionian Islands and Persia ; later 
they were found in various parts of Europe, ^Asia and North 
America, but did not become an important article of commerce 
until 1859, when the first oil-well was sunk near Titusville, in 
Pennsylvania (Witthaus). Petrolatum is a yellowish, trans- 
parent, semi-solid fatty substance, melting at from 104° to 
125° F., insoluble in water and cold alcohol, more so in boiling 
absolute alcohol; readily soluble in ether, chloroform, oil of 
turpentine, benzoin and the fixed and volatile oils. It consists 
principally of the hydrocarbons of the marsh-gas series. It 
has been introduced into the Pharmacopoeia as a substitute for 
vaseline, cosmoline, and other copyrighted preparations, which 



456 MATERIA MEDICA — DEMULCENTS. 

consist of mixtures of paraffine and the heavier petroleum oils, 
and, like them, possesses the advantage over the animal oils 
and fats of not becoming rancid. 

Effects and Uses. — When taken internally, in large doses, 
petroleum is said to cause giddiness and oppression, with pal- 
pitation and headache. It seems to be well borne by the 
stomach, and causes no diarrhoea. It is principally used ex- 
ternally as an unguent in scarlet fever and cutaneous affections, 
and forms an admirable basis for other ointments. It is an 
excellent dressing for wounds. Dr. H. L. Byrd, of Baltimore 
(Medical Progress, Nov. 4, 1882), speaks highly of cosmoline, 
gr. viij-xv every two to four hours internally, and petroleum 
externally, in diphtheria and measles. The same treatment in 
whooping-cough lessens and loosens the mucus, mitigates the 
violence of the paroxysms of coughing and shortens the dura- 
tion of the disease. He believes it acts by destroying germs, 
and that given internally twice daily it is a prophylactic in 
diphtheria and whooping-cough. 

PYROXYLINUM — PYROXYLIN. 

Pyroxylin, or Soluble Gun Cotton, is made by adding 
cotton to a mixture of nitric acid gradually added to sulphuric 
acid, and allowing it to macerate ; it is to be washed first with 
cold water, and then with boiling water, and after being 
drained on filtering paper it is dried by means of a water- 
bath. Pyroxylin has the appearance of ordinary cotton, but 
is harsh to the touch. It is insoluble in water, nearly so in 
alcohol, but, when freshly prepared, it dissolves in ether, 
forming collodion ; it is liable to decomposition if kept for 
some time. 

COLLODIUM — COLLODION. 

This is a solution of pyroxylin (4 per cent.) in stronger 
ether (70 per cent.) and stronger alcohol (26 per cent.). Col- 
lodion is a slightly opalescent, syrupy liquid, with a strong 
ethereal smell. By long standing it deposits a layer of fib- 



SOLUTION OF GUTTA-PERCHA. 457 

rous matter, and becomes more transparent ; this layer should 
be reincorporated by agitation before the collodion is used. 
When applied to the skin the solvent evaporates, and it forms 
a colourless, transparent, flexible and strongly contractile film. 
In this way it proves antiphlogistic by driving the blood away 
from a part, limiting effusion and promoting absorption, and 
at the same time acts as an admirable emollient by protecting 
an inflamed surface from the action of the air. It is a useful 
application to ulcers, fissures and skin diseases, and erysipe- 
latous parts. Marked improvement has followed its daily use 
in that disfiguring keloid of the face which sometimes follows 
small-pox (H. M.). It is used also in surgery as a substitute for 
adhesive plaster, and in pharmacy as a vehicle for other medi- 
cines. Iodized collodion (a very good solution of iodine for 
external application) contains from ten to twenty grains of 
iodine in a fluidounce of collodion. 

Collodium Flexile {Flexible Collodion) is made by mixing 
92 per cent, of collodion, 5 per cent." of Canada turpentine and 
3 per cent, of castor oil. This is a softer, more pliable and 
more elastic preparation, useful in cases where the strongly 
contractile power of ordinary collodion is objectionable. It is 
a good application in eczema. Collodion, in all forms, is to be 
kept in well-stoppered bottles. 

Collodium Stypticum {Styptic Collodion) contains 20 
per cent, of tanniG acid, 5 per cent, of alcohol, 20 per cent, of 
stronger ether and 55 per cent, of collodion. It is an excel- 
lent styptic application. 

LIQUOR GUTTA-PERCHA SOLUTION OF GUTTA- 
PERCHA. 

This is a solution of 9 per cent, of gutta-percha in 91 per 
cent, of purified chloroform. In preparing it lead carbonate 
is employed to free it from colouring matter. It is a clear, 
colourless or nearly colourless solution, and should be kept in 
well-stoppered glass vials. By the evaporation of the chloro- 
form, this proves an admirable application to inflamed or 



458 MATERIA MEDICA — DEMULCENTS. 

abraded parts, in skin affections, chaps, etc. ; also an excel- 
lent protective coating to parts threatened with bed-sores or 
liable to excoriation. 



LIQUOR S0DII SILICATIS — SOLUTION OF SODIUM 
SILICATE. 

This solution (commonly known as Solution of Soluble Glass) 
is made by fusing together fine sand and dried sodium carbonate, 
and dissolving the product in hot water. It is a semi-transparent, 
colourless, viscid liquid, without smell but having a sharp, alka- 
line taste, which, on drying, becomes a transparent glass-like 
mass. It has been used as a local application in erysipelas, 
but is chiefly used in making permanent dressings in the treat- 
ment of fracture. For this purpose it should be thoroughly 
applied to successive, layers of the dressing to the part and 
allowed to harden. 



SACCHARUM — SUGAR. 

Sugar is a principle diffused through the vegetable world 
under many forms, all distinguished by a sweet taste. They are 
divided into two chief groups — Cane Sugar and Grape Sugar. 
Cane sugar is the product of Saccharum oflicinarum (Nat. Ord. 
Graminacese), a native of tropical countries, cultivated most 
successfully in the West Indies, and to some extent in Louis- 
iana. It has a general resemblance to Indian corn. (Cane 
sugar is made also in France from the beet-root.) The juice of 
the sugar-cane is extracted by crushing and expressing the 
stalks ; it is then boiled with quicklime, strained, and reduced 
by evaporation to a thick syrup, which is cooled and granu- 
lated in shallow vessels. Raw sugar is refined by the agency 
of animal charcoal. When pure, cane sugar is white, crystal- 
lized in translucent, double oblique prisms, very sweet, soluble 
in one-third its weight of water, in alcohol, but not in ether. 
At a heat of 320° F. it melts and cools into a glassy, amor- 
phous mass, known as barley sugar ; from a strong solution 



HONEY. 459 

it can be made to crystallize slowly upon a string as rock 
candy. 

The uncrystallizable portion, which is drawn off in the granu- 
lation of sugar, is molasses or treacle, a dark, brownish-black 
syrupy liquid. 

Grape sugar is the sugar of grapes and other acid fruits ; it 
is also found in the liver and blood of mammalia, and in the 
urine of diabetes mellitus. It may be procured artificially by 
acting on starch with diluted sulphuric acid. It occurs as 
whitish or grayish-white, non-crystalline masses, or as a dense 
transparent syrup. 

Cane sugar (C 12 H 22 O n ) combines with alkalies to form saccha- 
rates. Grape sugar (C 6 II 12 6 H 2 0), when boiled with an alkali, 
is transformed into the acid of molasses, melassic acid ; mixed 
with solution of potassa and a weak solution of cupric sulphate, 
it attracts oxygen, and causes the precipitation of a reddish 
cuprous oxide (Cu 2 0). 

Effects and Uses. — Sugar, especially in the form of barley 
sugar, is an excellent demulcent to relieve catarrhal irritation ; 
much of the cough-relieving action of cough-syrups is due to 
the sugar they contain. It abates thirst, and is used to flavour 
refrigerant drinks. Tor pharmaceutical purposes sugar is 
much employed, for its agreeable taste, and also as a preserva- 
tive of vegetable substances, and to protect mineral medicines 
from oxidation. Molasses is slightly laxative as well as de- 
mulcent. 

MEL — HONEY. 

This saccharine liquid, the familiar product of the bee {Apis 
mellifica), best used in the form of mel despumatum {clarified 
honey), is a slightly laxative article of food, and is used in 
pharmacy, and as an agreeable demulcent ingredient in gargles. 

Saccharum Lactis {Sugar of 31ilk) (C 12 H 22 O n ,H 2 0), the 
saccharine principle of milk, obtained from whey, is used as a 
bland non-nitrogenous article of diet. By fermentation sugar 
of milk gives rise to lactic acid {acidum lacticum), a limpid, 
syrupy liquid, of a pale-wine colour, which has been used in 



460 MATERIA MEDICA — COLOURING AGENTS. 

certain forms of dyspepsia, and for the removal of phosphatic 
deposits in the urine, in the dose of 5i-iij during the day. 

Sugar of milk is used in preparing the abstracts and to 
ensure the admixture of powders, as pulvis ip)ecacuanhce et opii. 



CARBO LIGNI — CHARCOAL. 

Although not strictly ranking with demulcents, the medicinal 
uses of charcoal may, perhaps, be appropriately noticed under 
this head. Charcoal is prepared by the exposure of wood to a 
red heat without access of air. For medicinal purposes the 
charcoal prepared from young willow-shoots for the manufac- 
ture of gunpowder is preferred. It is a black, shining, brittle, 
porous substance, without odour or taste, and insoluble in 
water. 

Effects and Uses. — It is employed internally as an absorbent 
of acrid secretions, in dyspepsia (in which it is often very use- 
ful), in gastric irritation, diarrhoea and dysentery ; dose, from 
one to four teaspoonfuls. Externally it is used with effect to 
absorb the offensive gases given off from foul sores, in the form 
of poultice, mixed with flaxseed meal, or with bread-crumb, 
which is better from its porosity ; dry charcoal is sprinkled 
with advantage over sloughing ulcers, and appears to promote 
the separation of the sloughs. 

ORDER IV. — COLOURING AGENTS. 

These are employed exclusively for pharmaceutical purposes. 
The following articles enter into officinal preparations, to which 
they are intended to communicate their peculiar colour: 

CROCUS — SAFFRON. 

This is the stigmas of Crocus sativus {Nat. Ord. Iridacese), 
a small perennial plant, a native of Greece and Asia Minor, 
but now cultivated all over Europe and in our own country. 
In Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, it has been raised to 



COCHINEAL. 461 

considerable extent. The stigmas are an inch or more in 
length, of a rich deep-orange colour, a peculiar aromatic odour 
and a warm, pungent, bitter taste; they contain a principle 
termed saffranin or polychroite (C 48 H 60 O 18 ). 

Saffron is now admitted to possess little, if any, medicinal 
activity, and is used only to impart colour and flavour to 
officinal preparations. The tincture contains ten per cent, of 
saffron. 

S ANT ALUM RUBEU3I — RED SAUNDERS. 

This is the wood of Pterocarpus santalinus, a large tree of 
India and Ceylon (Nat. Ord. Leguminosse). It comes in 
roundish or angular billets, internally of a blood-red colour, 
externally brown, of little smell or taste ; in the shops it is 
found in the form of chips, raspings or coarse powder. It 
contains a resinoid matter, santalin (C 8 H 16 3 ), pterocarpin 
(C 17 H 16 5 ) and santalic acid. It is employed solely to give 
colour to spirits and tinctures. 



COCCUS — COCHINEAL. 

This is an insect, termed Coccus cacti, of Mexico and Cen- 
tral America, naturalized in Teneriffe and other places. The 
female insect, dried, constitutes the article of the shops. It 
occurs in the form of roundish or somewhat angular grains, 
about an eighth of an inch in diameter, convex on one side, 
concave or flat on the other, and wrinkled. Two varieties are 
distinguished, one reddish-gray, the other nearly black, known 
as silver grains and black grains. It has a faint, heavy odour 
and a bitter, slightly acidulous taste ; its colouring principle is 
carminic acid (C 17 H 18 O 10 ). 

Cochineal has had antispasmodic virtues attributed to it, and 
has been used in whooping-cough, especially in combination 
with potassium carbonate; dose, to infants, a third of a grain 
three times a day. It is employed chiefly, however, to colour 
tinctures and ointments. 



462 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTHELMINTICS. 



ORDER V. — ANTHELMINTICS. 

Anthelmintics are medicines which promote the destruction 
and expulsion of worms from the alimentary canal. They act 
in different ways ; some weaken or destroy the worms by a 
direct poisonous influence, others by mechanical means. The 
drastic cathartics have an anthelmintic effect from the in- 
creased secretion and exhalation which they induce from the 
alimentary canal. 

S PIG ELI A. 

Spigelia, called also Pinkroot, is the rhizome and rootlets 
of Spigelia marilandica, or Carolina Pink (Nat. Ord. Logan- 
iaceae), an herbaceous indigenous plant, found chiefly in our 
southern and southwestern States. The rhizome is horizontal, 
thick, bent, purplish-brown, branched on upper side with cup- 
shaped scars, on the lower numerous thin, brittle, light-coloured 
rootlets. (It must not be confounded with the underground 
portion of the Phlox Carolina (also called Carolina pink).) 
The stems are numerous, from a foot to a foot and a half high, 
of a purplish colour, furnished with sessile, opposite, ovate- 
lanceolate leaves, and terminate in spikes, bearing funnel- 
shaped flowers, of a rich carmine colour externally and orange- 
yellow within, which appear from May to July. The rhizome 
and rootlets, as found in the shops, consist of numerous 
slender, wrinkled, branching, brownish fibres attached to a 
dark-brown caudex, and have a faint, peculiar smell and a 
sweetish, slightly bitter taste ; their activity is diminished by 
time. Boiling water extracts its virtues, which are thought to 
depend upon a bitter principle; it contains also volatile oil, 
resin, a little tannic acid, and other matters. 

Effects and Uses. — In ordinary doses spigelia often proves 
anthelmintic without any sensible effect on the system. In 
larger doses it purges and sometimes vomits ; and in excessive 
doses it operates as a narcotic poison, producing vertigo 
dilated pupils, convulsions and death. It is less apt to occa- 



SPIGELIA. 



463 



sion narcotic effects when it acts on the bowels, and hence it is 
usually combined with or followed by cathartics. As an anthel- 
mintic against lumbrici (or round worms) it is considered the 
most reliable article we possess. 



Fig. 30. 




Administration. — Dose of the powdered root, 5i-ij for an 
adult ; for a child three or four years old, gr. x-xx, to be 
repeated night and morning for three or four days, and fol- 



464 



MATERIA MEDICA — ANTHELMINTICS. 



lowed by a brisk cathartic ; calomel is sometimes combined 
with it. The fluid extract contains in a fluidounce a troyounce 
of spigelia ; dose for a child two years old, ten drops. Under 
the name of worm tea, preparations containing spigelia and 
cathartics are kept in the shops, as in the following formula : 
spigelia §ss, manna §i, senna and fennel, each 5>j\ savine 3ij ; 
to be infused in a pint of boiling water, and a tablespoonful 
given to a child two years old, three times a day. 



CHENOPODIUM WORM SEED. 

Fig. 31. 




Wormseed is the fruit of Chenopodium ambrosioides, or 
Jerusalem Oak (Nat. Ord. Chenopodiacae), an indigenous 
herbaceous perennial plant (found most abundantly in the 



SANTONICA. 465 

southern states), from two to five feet high, with alternate 
oblong-lanceolate, sinuated and toothed yellowish-green leaves, 
with numerous small flowers of the same colour arranged in 
long terminal panicles. Wormseed, as found in the shops, is 
in small spherical grains, not larger than a pin's head, of a 
dull greenish-yellow or brownish colour, a peculiar offensive 
smell, and a rather aromatic, pungent taste. Their sensible 
and medicinal properties are owing to a volatile oil (Oleum 
Chenopodii), obtained by distillation. 

Effects and Uses. — Wormseed is a very efficient anthelmintic, 
particularly adapted to the expulsion of lumbrici from chil- 
dren. Dose, 3i-ij for a child two or three years old, in 
molasses, night and morning, for three or four days, to be fol- 
lowed by a brisk cathartic. The oil is more used than the 
fruit ; dose, gtt. v-x for a child, in emulsion with sugar. The 
expressed juice of the leaves and a decoction made with milk 
are also used. 

SANTONICA. 

The unexpanded flowers of Artemisa maritima (Nat. Ord. 
Composite), a native of Persia, and of other species of artemi- 
sia, are used as an anthelmintic (in the dose of 10 to 80 grains), 
under the name of Levant Wormseed. They resemble small 
seeds in appearance, are about a line in length, oval, obtuse at 
both ends, of a greenish-brown colour, a strong, somewhat tere- 
binthinate odour, and a bitter, camphoraceous taste. They 
contain volatile oil, resin, and a peculiar principle termed san- 
tonin, which is prepared by digesting santonica and lime in 
diluted alcohol, adding acetic acid, crystallizing, boiling with 
alcohol, digesting the tincture with animal charcoal, filtering 
and crystallizing. 

Santonin (Santoninum) is a neutral principle (C 15 H 18 3 ), 
and occurs in colourless shining, flattened prisms, without 
smell, nearly tasteless at first, but after a time bitter ; it 
becomes yellow on exposure to the light. It is nearly insoluble 
in cold water, soluble in 250 parts of boiling water, in 43 parts 
of cold and 3 parts of boiling alcohol, and in 160 parts of 
30 



466 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTHELMINTICS. 

ether. This is the anthelmintic constituent of santonica, and 
is a most efficient anthelmintic for lumbrici; but in large 
doses it is capable of producing serious if not fatal poisoning 
in man. The symptoms are (occasionally but not invariably) 
vomiting, giddiness, stupor, coldness of the skin, with clammy 
perspiration, dilated pupils, and, finally, tetanic convulsions. 
A remarkable effect of santonin, even in moderate amounts, 
is a change in the field of vision, so that objects are seen as 
if through a yelloiv medium. When allowed to remain in the 
system, santonin is supposed to be converted into a substance 
termed xanthopsin, which is eliminated through the kidneys, 
producing a yellow discoloration of the urine ; and probably it 
is this transformation which gives rise to the poisonous symp- 
toms occasionally noticed. Hence, santonin is best administered 
with calomel or other purgative. Dose, gr. ss-v two or three 
times a day, in the form of syrup. 

Sodii Santoninas {Sodium Santoninate) (2NaC 15 H 19 4 
7H 2 0) is made by adding santonin, as long as it is dissolved, 
to a hot solution of caustic soda and allowing the liquid to 
evaporate slowly. 

Trochisci Sodii Santoninatis ( Troches of Sodium Santoni- 
nate)', each troche contains sodium santoninate gr. j with 
sugar, tragacanth and orange-flower water. 



AZEDARACH. ■ 

This is the bark of the root of Melia azedarach, or Pride 
of China (Nat. Ord. Meliacese), an Asiatic tree, cultivated ex- 
tensively as an ornamental tree in our southern states. It 
has a bitter, nauseous taste, and yields its virtues to boiling 
water; but as it is used only in the recent state, it is not found 
in our shops. Its effects are said to resemble those of spigelia. 
The decoction is the preferred form of administration (four 
troy ounces to water Oij, boiled to Oj) ; dose for a child, f gss 
every two or three hours, till it affects the stomach and bowels ; 
or night and morning for several days. . 



ASPIDIUM. 467 



ASPIDIUM. 



Aspidium filix-mas, or Male Fern, and A. marginale (JS r at. 
Ord. Filices) are plants found in both hemispheres, from 
Greenland to Natal and from Japan to Peru, though not in- 
digenous in the eastern United States. They have a peren- 
nial horizontal root, from which spring numerous annual oval, 
lanceolate, acute, bright-green pinnate fronds or leaves, from 
a foot to four feet in height, grouped together in the form of a 
base ; the leaflets are deeply lobate, oval, crenate at their 
edges, and gradually diminish from the base of the pinna to 
the apex. The rhizome is the portion used. It is a long, 
cylindrical caudex, covered with portions of the stipes, and 
as found in the shops it is generally broken into fragments, 
of a brown colour externally, internally yellowish-white or 
greenish, with a peculiar feeble odour and a sweetish, bitter, 
astringent, nauseous taste. It deteriorates by keeping. It 
contains felicic acid (C ]4 H 18 5 ), on which its medicinal proper- 
ties are said to depend ; also volatile oil, fixed oil, resin, 
tannic and gallic acids, etc. ; and ether is the best solvent to 
extract its virtues. 

Effects and Uses. — Aspidium possesses tonic and astringent 
properties ; but its chief use is to cause the expulsion of taenia, 
which it destroys by a specific action. Its efficacy in this 
respect has been long and well attested, but it is most used to 
destroy the Swiss variety of taenia (borthriocephalus latus). 
Recently a fatal case of poisoning by aspidium has been re- 
ported, with symptoms of choleraic diarrhoea. The patient was 
given ovj of an ethereal extract by mistake. The post-mortem 
appearances were intense congestion of the stomach, with ec- 
chymoses beneath the mucous membrane and blood clots on 
the mucous surface. Dose, of the powder, 5i-iij, in electuary 
or emulsion, night and morning for one or two days. The 
oleoresin {pleoresina aspidii) is the best preparation ; it is a 
dark, thick liquid, of a bitterish, nauseous, slightly acrid taste; 
dose, f 5ss to f 5i night and morning for a day or two, to 
be followed by a cathartic. The administration of the taenia- 



468 MATERIA MEDICA — ANTHELMINTICS. 

cide agents should always be preceded by a twenty-four hours' 
fast. 

GRANATUM — POMEGRANATE. 

The bark of the root of Punica granatum (see p. 184) is 
used for the expulsion of taenia. It is a powerful styptic, and 
may act in this way. It is given in decoction (two troyounces 
to water Oij, boiled to Oj); dose, f5ij or more. 

Oleum Terebinthin^e (Oil of Turpentine) (see p. 335) is 
used as a remedy for taenia and other worms. Dose, foj, com- 
bined with or followed by castor oil. 

Calomel (see p. 360) is a valuable anthelmintic, given in 
cathartic doses. 

Brayera (Koosso). The female inflorescence of Brayera 
anthelmintica (Nat. Ord. Rosaceae), a native of Abyssinia, have 
been introduced into European practice as a remedy for taenia, 
under the name of Koosso. They occur in broken, compressed 
clusters, of a greenish-yellow colour, a fragrant balsamic odour, 
and a faint taste which after a time becomes acrid and dis- 
agreeable. They are said to impart their virtues best to hot 
water, and to yield gum, resin, fatty matter, tannic acid, and 
about three per cent, of a peculiar principle termed Jcosin, a 
yellow crystalline body, without smell or taste, to which its 
anthelmintic properties are attributed. They are given best 
upon an empty stomach, after a previous evacuation of the 
bowels, in infusion, 5«s of the powder with Oss of boiling water. 

Extractum Brayera? Fluidum (Fluid Extract of Brayera) ; 
dose, f5ij-jv. 

KAMALA. 

This is the glands and hairs obtained from the capsules of 
Mallotus philippinensis {Nat. Ord. Euphorbiaceae), a small tree 
of Hindostan and the East India islands. It is an orange-red, 
granular, inflammable powder, with little smell or taste, insol- 



PUMPKIN-SEED. 469 

uble in cold and nearly so in boiling water ; soluble in boiling 
alcohol and ether. It consists chiefly of resinous substances, 
to one of which, soluble in ether, and considered the active 
constituent, the name of rottlerin (C 22 H 20 O 6 ) has been given. 

Uses. — Kamala (formerly called Bottler a) is a highly- 
esteemed tseniacide in India, and has been lately introduced 
into Europe and our own country. Dose of the powder, 5i-ij, 
suspended in syrup. A tincture (six troy ounces to alcohol Oj) 
is given in the dose of f 5i-iv. Castor oil should be taken after 
the medicine. 

PEPO — PUMPKIN -SEED. 

The seed of Cucurbita pepo, or common Pumpkin, is proba- 
bly the most efficacious remedy known in the expulsion of tape- 
worm. These seeds are oval, flattish, grooved, 9 lines long by 
5 or 6 in breadth, of a light brownish-white colour, a sweetish, 
oily taste and aromatic smell. They owe their activity to a 
principle soluble in ether, chloroform, and especially alcohol. 
One or two troyounces of the fresh seeds, deprived of their 
outer envelope, beaten to a paste with finely-powdered sugar, 
and diluted with water or milk, should be taken after a twenty- 
four hours' fast, and followed in two or three hours by a dose 
of castor oil. A fluid extract, made with alcohol and glycerin, 
is probably the best preparation; dose, fSss-i. 



APPENDIX 



SIGNS AND ABBREVIATIONS USED IN PRESCRIPTIONS. 

R, Recipe, take. 

aa, Ana (ava), of each. 

lb, Libra, librae,, a pound, pounds. 

%, Uncia, uncise, an ounce, ounces. 

3, Drachma, drachmae, a drachm, drachms. 

^, Scrupulus, scrjipuli, a scruple, scruples. 

0, Octarius, octarii, a pint, pints. 

f^, Fluiduncia, fluiduncise, a fluidounce, fluidounces. 

f^, Fluidrachma. , fluidrachmse, a fluidrachm. fluidrachms. 

TT^, Minium, minima, a minim, minims. 

Ad 2 Vic, Ad duas vices, at two takings. 

Ad Lib., Ad libitum, at pleasure. 

Add., Adde, addantur, add, let be added. 

Altern. Horis, Alternis horis, every other hour. 

Aq. Destil., Aqua destillata, distilled water. 

Aq. Ferv., Aqua fervens, hot water. 

Aq. Fluvial., Aqua fluvialis, river water. 

Aq. Font., Aqua fontana, spring water. 

Aq. Pluv., Aqua pluvialis, rain water. 

Bis Ind., Bis indies, twice a day. 

Bull., Bulliat, bulliant, let it or them boil. 

Cap., Capiat, capiendum, let the patient take it, it must be taken. 

Chart., Charlula, chartulse, a small paper, or papers. 

Cochleat., Cochleatim, by spoonfuls. 

Coch. Mag., Cochleare magnum, a tablespoonful. 

Coch. Med., Cochleare medium, a dessertspoonful. 

Coch. Parv., Cochleare parvum, a teaspoonful. 

Col., Cola, coletur, strain, let it be strained. 

Collyr., Collyrium, an eye-water. 

Comp., Compositus, compounded. 

Cong., Congius, Congii, a gallon, gallons. 

C M. S., Cras mane sumendus, to be taken to-morrow morning. 

C. N., Cras node, to-morrow night. 

Decoc, Decoctum, a decoction. 

De D. in D., De die in diem, from day to day. 

Dieb. Alter , Diebus Alternis, every other day. 

Dil., Dilue, dilutus, dilute, diluted. 

Dim., Dimidius, one-half. 

Div., Divide, divide 



472 



APPENDIX. 



D., Doses, a dose. 

Elec, Electuarium, an electuary. 

Enem., Enema, enemata, a clyster, clysters. 

Exhib., Exhibeatur, let it be administered. 

F. H., Fiat haustus, let a draught be made. 

Fil., Filtra, filter. 

Ft., Fiat,fiant, let there be made. 

Garg., Gargarysma, a gargle. 

Gr., Granum, grana, a grain, grains. 

Gtt., Gutta, guttse, a drop, drops. 

Guttat., Guttatim, by drops. 

Haust., Haustus, a draught. 

Ind., Indies, daily. 

Inf., Infunde, pour in. 

Infus., Infusum, an infusion. 

Inj., Injiciatur, let it be injected. 

Jul., Julepus, julepum, a julep. 

M., Misce, mix. 

Mane, in the morning. 

Mist., Mistura, a mixture. 

Mic. Pan., Mica panis, crumb of bread. 

No., Numero, in number. 

Omn. Hor., Omni hord, every hour. 

Omn. Bid., Omni biduo, every two days. 

Omn. Bih., Omni bihora, every two hours. 

Omn. Man., Omni mane, every morning. 

Omn. Nocte, Omni node, every night. 

Omn. Quadr. Hor., Omni quadrante horse, every quarter of an hour. 

Ph., Pharmacopoeia. 

Pocul., Poculum, a cup. 

P. R. N., Pro re natd, as the symptoms may call for. 

Pulv., Pulvis, a powder. 

Q. P., Quantum placeat, as much as you please. 

Q. S., Quantum sufficiat, enough. 

Quor., Quorum, of which. 

Redig. in Pulv., Redigatur in pulv er em, let it be reduced to powder, 

Repet., Repetatur, repetantur, let it or them be repeated. 

S., Signa, write. 

S. A., Secundum artem, according to art. 

Semih., Semihord, half an hour. 

Sign., Signatura, a label. 

Ss., Semis, a half. 

Sum., Sume, sumendus, let it be taken. 

Tabel., Tabella, a lozenge. 

Troch., Trochiscus, a lozenge. 

Trit., Tritura, triturate. 



A COMPARISON BETWEEN THE DRUGS OF THE 
CHINESE AND UNITED STATES MATERIA 
MEDICO, WITH A SHORT ACCOUNT OF CHI- 
NESE MEDICINE. 

Information concerning the drugs in use by the Chinese is difficult 
to obtain because the facts in regard to them are scattered and badly 
arranged in the profuse literature of the country and its people. 
Much of the knowledge used in making this " drug comparison " has 
been taken from a " Chinese Materia Medica and Natural History," 
by Smith, which, as the author states in his preface, derives its 
original information from the great Chinese Herbal, or native Materia 
Medica. This work, known as the Pen Ts'au, 1 and to be hereafter 
so designated, was compiled by Li Shi Chin, a district magistrate of 
the province of Hupeh, and published about 1597. It was not a com- 
pilation alone, for it contained original observations and showed evi- 
dence of a comprehensive mind. It is usually bound in forty octavo 
volumes, divided into fifty-two chapters, containing 11,896 form- 
ulae. The first two volumes contain theories of anatomy and med- 
icine ; in other portions observations on practice are contained, and 
lastly, there is an index. Each article is treated in a pharmaceutical, 
descriptive and medicinal manner. 2 The contents are arranged in sixty- 
two great orders and sixteen divisions, viz. : (1) water, (2) fire, (3) 
earth, (4) minerals and metals, (5) herbs, (6) grain and pulse, (7) vege- 
tables, (8) fruits, (9) trees, (10) garments and utensils, (11) insects, 
(12) scaly animals, (13) mailed and shelly creatures, (14) birds, (15) 
beasts, and (16) man. Each article in the sixteen divisions is treated 
separately and fully. Water is divided into aerial and terrestrial : 
fire is considered under eleven heads, viz., bambo, moxa, etc. : earths 
include soots, ink, the secretions of various animals : the chapter on 
minerals and metals includes metallic substances and their oxides : 
herbs include nine families, viz., odoriferous, marshy, noxious, aquatic, 
hill plants, etc., and medicinal plants: grain and pulse com- 
prise four families, hemp, wheat, rice, etc. : vegetables, pungent 

1 Middle Kingdom, vol. 1, p. 288. 

2 Chinese Mat. Med. and Nat. History, see preface. 



474 APPENDIX. 

plants, leeks, mustard, ginger, bamboo sprouts : fruits consist of the 
plum, peach, citron, melon, etc. : of trees there are six families, viz., 
the camphor, pine, elm, willow, bamboo, etc. : the chapter on gar- 
ments and utensils contains an account of such garments and utensils 
as are used in medicine : the chapter on insects includes bees, the silk- 
worm, etc. : of the scaly animals spoken of there are dragons, crabs, 
tortoises, fishes, etc. : the chapter on birds describes the water fowl, 
sparrows, etc. : and in the chapter on beasts are included wild and 
domestic animals. 

Besides the Pen Ts'au there is a miscellaneous work in three 
volumes, the Uhr Ya, 1 which ranks high as an authority on natural 
history. 

In Peking 2 there is a medical school which affords instruction to 
numerous students. It would seem to be rather a medical hall than 
school, practitioners not being brought up in the school, but attending 
it after having obtained some knowledge of medicine. It is under 
the charge of a president and deputies, the duties of the latter con- 
sisting in directing the medical art to cure. Instruction in medicine 
does not appear to be an object any further than it is to be gained by 
practical experience. 3 There is no recognized system of instruction. A 
man intending to become a doctor reads the books he thinks most de- 
sirable, generally those containing the experience of any old practitioner, 
no diplomas being required. Medical practitioners in China are, as a 
rule, well educated, because those studying medicine are mostly disap- 
pointed literati — that is, young men who have competed for literary 
rank and prizes at the great examinations held in Peking, and failed. 4 
These men, and others too, claim the title of doctor as soon as they 
have read what they consider to be a sufficient number of books on 
medicine, without proving to any one that they are entitled to the 
degree. 

5 The Chinese make no division of medical practice, and therefore 
are in no sense of the word specialists, the same individual often acting 
as surgeon, physician and apothecary. That this is true in all cases 
is doubtful, for Lochardt states that some are obstetricians, while others 
treat rheumatism and fevers. 

1 Chinese Repository, vol. 7, p. 45. 

2 Ibid., vol. 4. 

3 Medical Missionary in China, Lochardt. 

4 Chinese Repository, vol. 1, p. 181. 
6 Staunton's Embassy, vol. 2, p. 534. 



APPENDIX. 475 

*A11 diseases are classified under nine headings, viz.: (1) those 
affecting the pulse violently, (2) those affecting it a little, (3) diseases 
arising from cold, (4) female diseases, (5) cutaneous diseases and 
sores, (6) diseases requiring bleeding, (7) diseases of the eye, (8) 
diseases of the mouth and teeth, (9) diseases of the bones. 

It will be seen that diseases of the pulse take up two of the nine 
divisions, 2 for the Chinese lay great stress on the frequent and minute 
examination of the pulse, 3 thinking that it portrays the condition of 
the liver and other important organs. 

That the Chinese were not ignorant of counter-irritation and deple- 
tion is apparent; for, according to *Remissat, they understood blood- 
letting, cupping and the effects of baths upon the system. 

5 The great obstacle to the progress of the Chinese in the art of 
medicine is their want of anatomical knowledge. Their lack of accu- 
rate information in this branch of medicine is ridiculous as well as 
lamentable. Nor is it to be wondered at, when one takes into con- 
sideration the fact that they do not practice dissection. It will not 
be out of place here to insert extracts from a translation of a Chinese 
anatomical work 6 : — " The bladder has charge of accumulated water." 
" It is the receptacle of the saliva." " The water drunk permeates 
into the bladder, while the dregs and dirt flow into the large intes- 
tine." " The seventh vertebra has a small heart connected to its 
side," probably alluding to the vertebral artery. " The brain con- 
sists of one piece." " At one expiration the blood moves three inches, 
and the same during inspiration." " The lungs take charge of the 
food ; the superabundant food is taken charge of by the small intes- 
tine." " The kidneys regulate our strength, and from them all our 
clever ideas originate." " The ileo-caecal valve is the impeded door- 
way." 

This is a strange mixture of fact and fiction. At first one would 
suppose, from the statement that the bladder has charge of the accu- 
mulated water, that they possessed some correct physiological and 
anatomical knowledge ; but, in the next sentence, to be told that the 
same receptacle contains the saliva indicates at once their ignorance. 

1 Chinese Repository, vol. 4. 

2 Chinese Repository, vol. 1, p. 181. 

3 Melanges Asiatiques, tome 1, p. 245. 

4 Ibid., t. 1, p. 25. 

5 Ibid., t. 1, p. 245. 

6 Translation of four anatomical diagrams, Harland, 1846. 



476 APPENDIX. 

1 0ne authority states that their entire anatomical knowledge is 
founded on metaphysical speculation and not on fact. 

Classification of Medicines. — The Chinese group their drugs 
in accordance with their names, with the part or organ into which 
they enter, their properties, if hot or cold, their taste and smell, uses 
and doses. 

3 Sixty or seventy of these herbs are frequently combined in a dose, 
and the practitioner attempts to foretell the precise time of recovery. 

Tonics. — Medicines which warm and strengthen the viscera, viz., 
ginseng, dates, beef, honey, liquorice root, cassia, cinnamon and aloes. 

Astringents. — Nutmegs, galls, poppy seeds, pomegranate skin, 
charcoal, burnt straw, bones and tusks of dragon, oyster shells, quince 
seeds and iron filings. 

Resolvents.— Gringer, onions, leeks. Medicines which disperse 
wind : mint, cassia, mimosa pods, tigers' bones, snakes' skins, camphor. 
Medicines which reduce heat : yam, black pulse, curd. Emetics : 
white hellebore, bluestone. Warm resolvents : nutmeg, pepper, cloves, 
sandal wood, benzoin, resin, barley, mustard seeds. Mild resolvents : 
betel-root, duck-weed and orange-peel. 

Purgatives. — Rhubarb, sodium sulphate, warm water, catechu, 
(?) bears' gall, human ordure. Mild aperients : wormwood. Medi- 
cines which affect the blood : to warm it, wine, germander, brown 
sugar, cassia wood j to cool it, saffron, elm-tree root, cinnabar. Astrin- 
gents of the blood : madder, turmeric, dragon's blood, arrowroot, old 
copper cash, goats' ordure, cantharides. 

Miscellaneous. — To kill worms : asafetida, betel-root, quicksil- 
ver (native calomel). To kill poisons : castor-oil seeds, resin, ivory 
shavings, elephants' skin, a preparation of toads. To expel poisons : 
burdock seeds, dried earthworms. Poisons : croton-oil seeds and 
arsenic. This list comprises 442 medicinal agents. 

Vaccination. — Small-pox becomes epidemic in certain portions of 
China at different periods, and single cases occur in the treaty ports. 
The disease frequently is very fatal, thousands of persons being car- 
ried off by its ravages. The prevention of small-pox by means of vac- 
cination was unknown to the Chinese until they came in contact with 

1 Chinese Repository, vol. 1, p. 181. 

2 Medical Missionary in China, Lochardt. 

3 Chinese Repository, vol. 1, p. 181. 



APPENDIX. 477 

foreigners. x That there was a method of holding it in check known to 
them is shown by the fact that they practiced inoculation in the 
tenth century of the Christian era. Authorities differ as to who in- 
troduced vaccination: 2 according to one, it was first brought from 
Manilla by a Mr. Hewitt, a Portuguese, to Macao, in 1805; 3 ac- 
cording to another, Sir G. Staunton, 1813, translated into Chinese an 
account of vaccination and sent it to the court at Peking; 4 and lastly. 
Dr. Pearson, of the East India Company, gets the credit of first 
introducing it in 1820. 

The mode of procedure in inoculation is to pulverize the scab taken 
from a small-pox patient and to blow the powder up the nostril of the 
child. In the case of a boy, the left nostril is selected ; of a girl, the 
right. 

Here is a translation of a document on vaccination found posted on 
the walls about Foochow : " Vaccination was introduced hither from 
Europe. It is practiced by 'planting' three ' seeds' of virus upon a 
spot upon the left and right arms above the elbows. This spot is 
called the cold-dispelling pool, and on it is formed the virus and the 
scab, there being no eruption upon the body generally. The result is 
effected in ten days, and no failure can possibly take place, whilst 
security is obtained from any natural and original attack of small-pox, 
or from a second attack if the patient has already had it. Children 
vaccinated in this way need not be afraid of exposure to cold, thun- 
der, chills, heat, etc., nor need they take any medicine whatever, or 
avoid any particular kinds of nourishment, but may play about just as 
usual." 5 

Pharmacy. — The active principles of drugs are extracted by re- 
peated boilings — true decoctions. Tea is an exception to this rule. 
Infusions are made and the art of percolation is understood. When 
sweating is called for, medicines are given in the liquid form. To 
make tinctures they ferment the substance to be administered, al- 
though tinctures are made by dissolving the substance in alcohol. 
Vegetable remedies, like rhubarb and gentian, are taken in pill or de- 
coction. 

In comparing the drugs of the two Materise Medicse in the following 

1 Staunton's Embassy, vol. 2, p. 154. 

2 Chinese Repository, vol. 2, p. 447. 

3 Melanges Asiatiques, t. 1, p. 249. 

4 Middle Kingdom, vol. 2, p. 190. 

5 Chinese Customs, Medical Reports, Sept. 1877, p. 89* 



478 APPENDIX. 

pages the expression " no account is given of it" frequently occurs ; this 
is to be understood as meaning that no allusion has been made to the 
drug in question, botanically or medically, by Chinese writers, so far 
as the writer is able to discover. 

Opium. — Known since the Mongol dynasty (a. d. 1281), opium has 
been long cultivated in China. In the Ming dynasty it came into 
more general use (a. d. 1368). The Pen Ts'au describes its collection 
from the poppy, after flowering, in an intelligent way, and mentions 
the fact of its regular sale as a drug. It was then given as an astrin- 
gent and sedative in dysentery, catarrh, dysmenorrhea and spermat- 
orrhoea. At the present time this practice has ceased, and the use 
of the drug is branded with all the infamy and illegality attached to 
the opium habit. The poppy is extensively cultivated in Sechuen : 
according to Dr. Jamieson's analysis it yields about 6*94% of morphia. 
1 Opium was introduced into China in the eighth or ninth century. 

Belladonna. — It is doubtful whether the Atropa belladonna is 
met with in China; though it may have been confused with the 
Solanum nigrum. The Pen Ts'au describes a solanaceous plant, the 
use of which produces profound anaesthesia. According to 2 Waring 
it is found in western Asia. 

Chloral. — Unknown. The patent medicine " chlorodyne," im- 
ported into China, is recommended to missionaries, who are wont to 
dabble in physic. 

Aconitum. — Several species of aconite are met with in China, 
mostly the tuberous roots of A. variegatum, A. sinense ; they grow in 
Kiagnan and Chekiang. Their poisonous properties are known. The 
Chinese believe that by the use of pigs' dung and a long period of 
domestication the species become less poisonous. The roots were 
formerly used to poison military arrows. They are only used in med- 
ical practice after being so prepared as to diminish their poisonous 
properties ; the roots are known to be sedative. 

Hyoscyamus Niger. — Hankow samples of the drugs going by 
this name have consisted of flowers of Andromeda polifolia and azalea. 
Narcotic properties are referred to these flowers. Identification is not 
certain. According to 3 Waring it grows in western Asia. 

Solanum Dulcamara.- — Not clearly distinguished from S. nigrum 

1 Tke Poppy Plague, 1876, p. 1. 

2 Pharmacopoeia of India, p. 171. 

3 Pharmacopoeia of India, p. 177. 



APPENDIX. 479 

by the Chinese. It is officinal as a diuretic, alterative and tonic. 
The stalks and leaves are used in the treatment of swellings. The 
habitat is temperate Asia (Waring, p. 179). 

Cannabis Indica. — No such drug has been met with in Chinese 
works ; according to Dr. Tatarinov, however, it has been identified. 

Datura Stramonium. — The D. alba is a common weed in China. 
1 It is said to have been rained from heaven. It. differs but little 
from the D. stramonium. The flowers are used as a wash in skin 
affections. The leaves, according to Dr. Waring, contain daturia, an 
active poisonous alkaloid. Hoffman and Schultes have applied a name 
to D. stramonium, but such name is unknown to the Chinese. 

Tobacco. — This is not indigenous, 2 but was probably introduced by 
way of Japan or Manilla in the sixteenth or seventeenth century 
(Mayer's Researches in Hongkong, Notes and Queries, May, 1867). 
3 It is not mentioned in the Pen Ts'au. It now grows in most of the 
provinces, and its acrid and expectorant properties are well understood 
by the Chinese. The cut leaf is used as a haemostatic. The smoking 
habit is confined to the Cantonese. The Chinese do not chew it. 

Conium Maculatum. — No account is given of it. 

Lobelia Inflata. — A species of lobelia would seem formerly to 
have yielded a kind of tobacco. The L. chinensis is mentioned by 
Burnett (p. 380). 

Humulus. — No account is given of it. 

Prussic Acid. — Unknown. 

Potassium Cyanide. — Unknown. 

Amygdalus Amara. — The fruit of the Amygdalus communis is not 
clearly distinguished by the Chinese from that of the peach or apricot. 
The bitter almond is known to be poisonous, and the sweet variety is 
similarly confounded. Almonds are said to be heating, sedative, anti- 
spasmodic and pectoral, besides tending to longevity. The flowers, 
leaves and branches are officinal ; the root is said to be antidotal to 
the poison of the fruit. This is a favorite belief of Chinese doc- 
tors, who regard the root as the polar antagonist of the stem and 
everything borne on it. 

Camphora Officinarum. — 4 A native drug growing abundantly 

1 Eitel, Handbook of Chinese Buddhism, p. 71. 

2 Middle Kingdom, vol. 1, p. 287 ; Staunton's Embassy, vol. 2, p. 174. No 
tradition of its introduction. Indigenous, Burnett, Flor. China, p. 383. 

3 Chinese Repository, vol. 9, p. 638. 

4 Grows throughout Formosa. Treaty Ports of China and Japan, p. 320 



480 APPENDIX. 

in Fuhkien and in Canton province. It is an important article, of com- 
merce. As obtained from the sublimed chippings it is impure. The 
Pen Ts'au gives directions for subliming it in copper vessels. It is 
not so strong as the English drug, but more volatile, and it is compared 
in its nature to nitre. It is reputed to be stimulating, diaphoretic, 
sedative and anthelmintic. *An oil is obtained. 

Physostigma. — No account is given of it. 

Woorara. — No account is given of it. 

Cocculus Indicus. — No account is given of it. 

Ether. — The Chinese know nothing of ether. The coined word 
means " fluid brought from the west of lightest possible weight." 

Chloroform. — Not known. 

Asafetida. — The narthex asafetida grows in the vicinity of Can- 
ton, and is much adulterated. The Chinese have. a proverb that "of 
asafetida there is none genuine, of skull-cap there is none sophisti- 
cated." Anthelmintic, antispasmodic and carminative properties are 
attached to it. It is said to assist the digestion of all meats. A sub- 
stitute for this drug is made by boiling garlic and a human placenta 
in water, and from this by evaporation an extract is made. 

Ammoniac. — No account is given of it. 

G-albanum. — No account is given of it. 

Cypripedium. — No account is given of it. 

Scutellaria. — The S. viscidula, the common Chinese skull-cap, is 
met with all over China. The root is credited with demulcent, ex- 
pectorant and febrifuge virtues. The seeds are also officinal. 

Musk. — The musk deer inhabits certain provinces of China (Ho- 
nan, Yunnan). Chinese authors believe musk to be antispasmodic. It 
is occasionally used as a poison by suicides. 

Castoreum. — The Pen Ts'au gives some description of the beaver, 
but no account is given of its medicinal virtues. 

Quassia. — No account is given of it. 

Gentian. — This "dragon's gall plant" is probably the Gr. asclepi- 
adea of botanists. The root is used, and is brought from Shensi. The 
taste is bitter ; it is given in night-sweats and haematuria. All bitter 
medicines are set down by Chinese physicians as antirheumatic and 
antiphlogistic. 

Coptis. — Not mentioned. 

Columbo. — Not mentioned. 

1 Treaty Ports of China and Japan, p. 320. Much used in Chinese medicine. 



APPENDIX. 481 

Chamomile. — The Anthemis nobilis is not met with ; the A. apifolia 
is used in its place. The Chinese are fond of fumigating and steam- 
ing sore eyes with infusions of the flowers. 

Eupatorium. — No account is given of it. 

Magnolia. — Different species are known, the M. rubra, etc. The 
part used is the bark, which is given as a tonic and in fevers. The 
Pen Ts'au states that all diseases of the nose are benefited by prepara- 
tions of the drug. The seeds or cones are used in fistula ani. 

Angustura, Cascarilla, Canella. — No account of these barks 
is given. 

Achillea. — No account is given of it. 

Cinchona. — Not known to the Chinese faculty. The Panax gin- 
seng is the cinchona of China. 

Eucalyptus. — No account is given of it. 

Cornus Florida. — No account is given of it. 

Salix. — Many species are found in Hupeh, but the willow is 
confused with other genera, viz., the populus and tamarix. Of the 
leaves a kind of tea is made ; the bark is used in dysentery, dropsy, 
and locally to bruises. 

Prunus Virginiana. — Cultivated and wild varieties of the prunus 
genus are met with in the central provinces. The root bark has been 
used as an antifebrifuge. 

Nectandra. — This bark is not mentioned. 

Pepsine. — The Chinese use the lining membrane of the fowl's 
gizzard, peeled off and dried, in dyspepsia, diarrhoea, etc. The male 
bird is used for preparing the drug for female patients, and vice versa. 
Here the Chinese would seem to have anticipated the use of pepsine. 

Iron. — Iron ore is found in many provinces. A kind of vinum ferri 
is directed in the Pen Ts'au to be used as a cordial. Iron washes in anal 
diseases are prescribed in a vague way. The iron salts are known, to 
be tonic and astringent. Iron filings, levigated, are given with other 
drugs in convulsive diseases. Iron rust mixed with paint, in. Chinese 
pharmacy, is applied to sores. Other salts are known, as ferrous sul- 
phate, ferric oxide. 

Copper. — Many salts of copper are found,. but metallic copper is not 
employed. The Chinese have opposite notions to our own in regard to 
the effect of the two metals copper and iron upon the human system. 
They consider copper to be more wholesome, and recommend that food 
for the sick should be cooked in. copper vessels. The Chinese under- 
31 



482 APPENDIX. 

stand the powerful effects of this metal. x It has been used as an 
emetic in opium poisoning. According to the Pen Ts'au, a sort of 
vinum cupri is used in dysentery and chlorosis. The iron and cop- 
per sulphates are not well distinguished. 

Zinc. — Zinc is not carefully distinguished from lead, tin, antimony 
or pewter. Of all its salts the Chinese are most familiar with calamine. 
The Pen Ts'au alludes to Persian zinc ; zinc oxide, or tutty (from the 
Tamul word tutum), is a new salt to the Chinese. The Chinese word 
" tau" stands for either an oxide or sulphide; from this nomenclature 
it is seen how crude are their notions of chemistry. The astringent 
properties of zinc are not well known. 

Silver. — Met with in many of the provinces. Silver is said by 
2 Li Shi Chin to be sedative and astringent to the uterine organs. 

Bismuth. — Can find no account of it or its salts. 

Cadmium. — Not known. 

Sulphuric Acid. — Unknown to the Chinese. 

Hydrochloric Actd. — Unknown to the Chinese. 

Nitric Acid. — Unknown to the Chinese. 

Oxalic Acid. — Unknown to the Chinese. 

Tannin. — Unknown to the Chinese. Nut galls are obtained from 
the Rhus semi-olata in Shingking. They are known to be astringent, 
and are used by tanners. They enter into an imperial electuary, highly 
rated and only obtainable as a gift from the throne. The Chinese use 
oak bark as an astringent, especially to chancres and swellings. 

Catechu. — Imported from the East Indies. Is said to have for- 
merly been grown in Yunnan province. It is known to be astringent. 

Kino. — It is doubtful whether the tree yielding kino grows in 
China; possibly gum lac, obtained from a tree of southern China, is 
the true kino. 3 Mr. Eitel understands this substance to be similar to 
Bengal kino. 

Bhatany. — Not known. 

HiEMATOXYLON. — Not known. 

Quercus. — Different species grow throughout the country ; an as- 
tringent tea is made of the leaves ; the bark is also used. 

Geranium, Uva Ursi, Chimaphila. — Unknown. 

Pomegranate. — The fruit is largely eaten j the flowers with iron 



1 Chinese Mat. Med. and Nat. His., Smith, p. 72. 

2 Compiler of the Chin-Herbal, or Pen Ts'au. 

3 Author of Hand-Book of Buddhism. 



APPENDIX. 483 

are used to make a hair-dye ; the root and peel are used as astringents 
in diarrhoea, etc. 

Carbolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Creasote. — Unknown. 

Lead. — The best known of the soft metals in China; it is regarded 
as the progenitor of the five metals. Chinese works allude to the 
poisonous properties of lead as producing paralysis, jaundice and con- 
stipation. Sedative, antiphlogistic and anthelmintic effects are vaguely 
ascribed to this metal. It is prescribed in the Pen Ts'au for tooth- 
ache, dyspepsia, etc. At present it is but little used. 

Alum. — * Found in argillaceous schist, alum is mainly used to 
purify water. Its astringent properties are known. A pill of alum 
and wax is used. 

Alcohol. — The 2 fermentative process has long been known by 
the 3 Chinese (b. c. 2000 years). The art was perfected during the 
Mongolian dynasty (1127-1280 A. D.). A spirit termed samshiu, or 
thrice-distilled spirit, is made from cereal * grains. The Chinese are 
not addicted to drunkenness. Their alcoholic beverages, however, 
stimulate quickly, reddening the face. Only one distillation is made 
for common liquor. 

Ammonia. — Sal ammoniac is found in Ning-hai, Kansuh. It is 
liable to be confused with nitre, borax and sodium sulphate. In 
Chinese practice it is used as a sedative and mild escharotic. 

Arnica, Phosphorus. — No account is given of either. Arnica 
japonica is described in Icones Plantarum Japonicarum, and Flor. 
Japon, p. 137. 

Capsicum Annuum. — This plant grows in central China. 5 Other 
varieties are C. inense, C. frutescens. There is no mention of the 
fruit in the Pen Ts'au. 

Piper Nigrum. — Black pepper is imported from the East Indies. 
Unsuccessful attempts have been made to cultivate it. It is used 
as a stimulant and stomachic. 

Cinnamon. — The C. aromaticum is found in Cochin China. It is 
used more as a condiment than as a medicine. Cassia buds are rec- 

1 Chinese Repository, vol. 2, p. 447. 

2 Chinese Repository, vol. 10, p. 126. Eteih made an alcoholic liquor 
in the reign of Ta Ju, b. c. 2205 ; for so doing he was banished. The grape 
is not indigenous. 

3 The Middle Kingdom, vol. 2, p. 75. 

4 The grape is not pressed for wine. History of China, p. 17. 
2 Burnett's Flora of China. 



481 APPENDIX. 

oniinended in the Pen Ts'au in eczematous affections behind the ear, 
called " moon sores," supposed to be brought on by lunar influences. 
The Chinese think that cinnamon affects the uterus. 

Mace. — Is said originally to have come from central Asia, but 
now grows near Canton. It is not much used as a spice. Internally 
it is given as an astringent and anti-vinous remedy. 

Cloves. — Chinese works speak of the tree growing in Canton 
province. The male flowers are supposd to be the efficacious ones ; 
they are known to be carminative and stimulating. 

Pimento. — No account is given of it. 

Ginger. — Largely grown in Hupeh and Kiangsi. In the green 
state it is eaten as a condiment. Stomachic properties are attached to 
the root. 

Cardamom. — This is said to come to China from southern India, 
but is now grown in Canton province. It is thought to do good in 
affections of the stomach. Part used, the seeds. 

Acorus Calamus. — Met with in China ; is used in medical prac- 
tice. 

Gaultheria. — No account is given of it. 

Mint. — Several species are found in China, viz., M. hirsuta, M. 
crispa and M. canadensis (Burnett) j all are used as carminatives. 

Lavender — No account of it is given. 

Fennel. — The anise and sweet fennel are confounded in the Pen 
Ts'au, as is caraway. 

Vanilla. — No account is given of it. 

Digitalis. — x The root of a species of fox-glove is brought from 
Honan, and is used as a blood purifier. 

Veratrum. — The V. nigrum is the only one of this group (Melan- 
thacese) which has been identified. It is known to be an active poison 
by the Chinese. 

Gelsemium. — No account is given of the G. sempervirens, but the 
Jasminum sambac is found. The roots of the jasmine plants are known 
to be powerfully sedative. 

Antimony. — An ore of lead found near Chefoo yields antimony. 
The Pen Ts'au states that wine allowed to turn sour in pewter cups 
becomes poisonous. 

Potassium Nitrate. — Found efflorescent on the soil in Manchu- 
ria; it is collected and purified by solution, filtration and crystallization. 

1 Digitalis Chinensis : Burnett, Flora of China, p. 382. 



APPENDIX. 485 

Potassium nitrate is confused with sodium sulphate. The Pen Ts'au 
recommends saltpetre in the same way as it is used by us. 

Borax. — Found as a deposit on the shores of the lakes of Thibet. 
For medicinal use it is refined. It is said to prevent drunkenness if 
taken beforehand. Antiphlogistic, resolvent and expectorant properties 
are attached to this drug, the effects of which are better understood 
than any drug in the Chinese Materia Medica. 

Spiritus iETHERis Nitrosi. — Unknown. 

Vegetable Acids. — No account is given of the preparation of 
these. 

Acetic, Tartaric, Citric. — No mention of the lemon is made in 
the Pen Ts'au. 

Nux Vomica. — Originally came from central Asia, but is now brought 
from Sechuen. The seeds are used to poison dogs; it is forbidden to 
sell them to unknown persons. They are recommended as useful in 
fevers, throat affections and abdominal enlargements. 

Ergot. — The Chinese do not cultivate rye. Maize and rice occa- 
sionally become ergotized. Some of these grains are said to have 
produced abortion. 

Ipecacuanha. — Not indigenous in China. The heroic doses used 
in Indian practice in dysentery are not well borne by the Chinese. 

Sanguinaria, Gillenia, Tamarindus. — No account of these is 
given. 

Castor Oil. — ^he Ricinus communis grows in Hupeh, but is said 
to be of foreign origin. The leaves are applied to swellings as a discu- 
tient, and administered internally as an expectorant. The seeds are used 
locally (crushed), combined with the oil of the seeds. The pulp is rubbed 
into the palms in palsy, on the temples in headache, and introduced 
into the meatus urethras in stricture. The pulp is rubbed on the soles 
of parturient women to hasten the birth of the child and to expel the 
placenta. It is stuffed into the ears and rubbed over the top of the 
head in prolapsus uteri ; with the oil it is applied to burns and 
scalds. 

Manna. — No account is given of the 2 Fraxinus ornus. Tamarix 
chinensis is said to produce manna. 

Cassia Fistula. — This plant is not mentioned in the Pen Ts'au, 
nevertheless the natives of Kwangsi gather the pods for the sake of 

1 Flora of China, 354. Seldom used as a laxative. 

2 Burnett gives the Fraxinus chinensis, p. 384, Flora of China. 



486 APPENDIX. 

their purgative pulp and seeds. The drug is unknown in central 
China. Dr. Williams states that the Chinese cassia is less active than 
the American. 

Sulphur. — Has been obtained from the volcanic districts of Tur- 
fan, from Tangut and from Sechuen. Sulphur springs are met with 
near Chefoo. Japanese sulphur has long been utilized in China. 
The ordinary article is met with in crystalline masses of a pale-yellow 
colour, and is known by the Chinese to be injurious. It is used in 
rheumatism, fevers, dysentery, in impotency and in worms. It is used 
locally with camphor, muricia seeds and chaulmugra seeds in the 
treatment of itch and pediculi. 

Magnesium Sulphate. — A mineral salt is alluded to in the Pen 
Ts'au as present in bittern. It is described as yellowish- white, being 
bitter, cooling and purgative. 

Sodium Sulphate. — This salt was first brought to notice by a Tauist 
priest, A. d. 627-50. He pointed out that the salt had peculiar 
powers ; that its use would cause longevity and immunity from dis- 
ease. *It is prepared as follows : " ten catties 2 [of the salt are dissolved 
in a picul] 3 of water and exposed to the moon's rays during one night. 
This process is repeated with liquorice root, and then the saline product 
is heated in a vessel which is first luted down and then carefully closed , 
the heat being reapplied. The resulting solution is then filtered, ex- 
posed for three days to let the fire pass off from it, and is then to be 
finally mixed with liquorice powder." It is prescribed in fevers and 
as a mild escharotic. 

Rochelle Salt. — No account is given of it. 

Rheum. — Rhubarb is indigenous in China, and grows in Hupeh, 
4 Shensi and Sechuen, but the latter produces the best root. The 
Chinese drug, in its native country, is a powerful one, causing severe 
purging and prostration. The Pen Ts'au places it at the head of 
poisonous plants. The Chinese use rhubarb as a laxative, stomachic, 
astringent and diuretic. The stalks are not eaten. The leaves are said 
to be insectifugal. The Chinese consider the outside world dependent 
on them for rhubarb, and obliged to resort thither to relieve them- 
selves of an otherwise irremediable constipation. 



1 Chinese Materia Medica and Natural History, p. 200. 

2 l£ lbs. avoirdupois. 

3 133 lbs.: History of China, p. 15. 

4 This province is famed for it. History of China, p. 15, 



APPENDIX. 487 

Juglans Cineria. — No account of the butternut is given. The 
bark of the 1 J. regia is used as an astringent. 

Aloe. — Grows in the vicinity of Canton, according to the Pen Ts'au. 
One of its Chinese names means elephant's gall. It is known to be 
laxative. It is mostly now employed as a wash combined with liquor- 
ice in lepra, etc. 

Senna.— The true senna is known to grow in China. The leaves 
of other species of cassia are employed with like effects. 

Jalap. — The true jalap-root is not found in China. 

Podophyllum. — No account is given of it. 

Scammony. — No account is given of it. 

Colocynth. — No account is given of the Citrullus colocynthis. Ac- 
cording to Chinese authors a certain kind of melon (botanical name 
not stated) should be eaten with caution, as it frequently brings on 
severe diarrhoea. 

Gamboge. — Is found in Cochin China. The Chinese think it a 
substance vomited by serpents. Chinese draughtsmen use gamboge as 
a pigment ; it has no medicinal use. The Pen Ts'au puts it down as 
poisonous. Its action is too violent for Chinese practice. 

Elateritjm. — No account is given of the Momordica elaterium, but 
the M. balsamina is found. This plant ripens and bursts, and may 
then be used in place of elaterium. 

Croton Oil. — C. tiglium is met with in China. Several species 
are described in the Pen Ts'au. The entire fruit is officinal. Among 
the Chinese the oil of the seeds is put to the same uses as with us. 
2 Burnett speaks of the C. tiglium and other species. 

Pilocarpus. — No account is given of jaborandi. 

Sarsaparilla. — Known and described by the Chinese. The part 
used is the root. It is set down as tonic and diuretic. It has been 
used since the Ming dynasty in the treatment of syphilis. 

Mezereum. — No account is given of it. 

Gtuaiac, Sassafras, Erigeron, Colchicum, Apocynum. — No 
account is given of these. 

Scilla. — 3 The true squill is not met with in China. 

Taraxacum. — Found in China. 4 The plant is stated to be the 

1 Flora of China, Burnett, p. 348. 

2 Ibid., p. 353. 

3 Icones Plantarum Japonicarura, scilla Japonica crescit in Niphon in- 
sularum Japonicarum maxima. 

4 Flora of China, Burnett. 



488 



APPENDIX. 



Lontodon chinense. The shoots are eaten. Tonic virtues and the 
property of causing longevity are ascribed to this plant by the Pen 
Ts'au, but nothing is said of its diuretic effects. 

Juniper. — The medicinal properties of this coniferous plant are 
not understood by the Chinese. 

Carrot. — Grows wild in China. It is used as a food, and reputed 
to be tonic. 

Broom.- — Nothing is said of it in the Pen Ts'au. 

Cantharis. — The true Spanish fly is not met with in China. 
Other kinds of flies are collected and dried for use ; for example, the 
Mylabris schonhein. This is used in syphilis; it is also the great 
remedy of the Chinese for hydrophobia. The bite of the mad dog is 
supposed to impregnate the bitten person ; and a little dog, the 
product of the bite, is sought for in the urine, rendered bloody 
by a large dose of mylabris. When this condition is brought about 
recovery is considered certain. The mylabris is also used to produce 
abortion. It enters into a preparation of bats' dung employed in eye 
diseases. The insect has all the properties of the cantharis. 

Senega, Cimicifuga. — No account is given of either. 

Allium Sativum. — Is indigenous, being cultivated as a garden 
vegetable. Stimulant, antispasmodic and stomachic properties are re- 
ferred to it. It is supposed to prevent goitre and pestilential diseases. 

Cubeb. — This is not indigenous. J The plant grows in China, but 
is thought to have been introduced into Canton province from Sumatra 
or Java. The Pen Ts'au describes a berry, the account of which 
leaves no doubt that the cubeb has been used in China. 

Copaiba. — No account is given of it. 

Turpentine. — 2 An extract obtained by heat from coniferous trees 
of Cambodia is described in the Pen Ts'au. It was used locally in 
skin diseases. 

Matico, Pareira, Buchu. — No account is given of these. 

Myrrha. — The Balsamodendron myrrha and the mode of collect- 
ing the gum-resin is detailed in the Pen Ts'au. The tree is said to 
grow in the south of China. It is employed as an astringent and 
sedative. 

Benzoin. — Imported into China from the East Indies. It is pre- 



1 Chinese Repository, vol. 2, p. 459. 

2 Pinus chinensis, found near Ningpo : Treaty Ports of China and Japan, 
p. 349. 



APPENDIX. 489 

scribed in the Pen Ts'au to be used against worms. If benzoin is 
pure, the Chinese believe that its fumes will charm mice out of their 
holes. 

Styrax. — The trees yielding styrax. obtained from different species 
of liquidambar, grow throughout China. Plasters are made of the 
gum for the treatment of the sores of leprosy, sinuses, etc. It enters 
into a suppository, described in the Pen Ts'au, for constipation. 
Styrax is used per orem as a stimulant and anti-hemorrhagic remedy. 

Balsam of Peru and Tolu. — No account is given of these 
balsams. 

Sabina, Ruta — No account of either is given. Burnett mentions 
(p. 377) the Ruta angustifolia. 

Rubia. — Is used as a dye. The plant grows in Hupeh. Emmen- 
agogue properties are referred to the root in the Pen Ts'au. Accord- 
ing to Chinese testimony the root is, to some extent, poisonous, with 
a determination to the uterine organs. 

Mercury. — Found in many of the provinces; is called "water silver." 
The metal is set down in medical works as deleterious. The power 
to make one immortal was anciently affirmed of it. The Chinese have 
been fond of the study of alchemy, including the changes undergone by 
mercury in the fire. Now these studies have been discontinued ; but 
before the Christian era they had made considerable progress in them. 
Metallic mercury is sometimes taken by prostitutes to prevent concep- 
tion. In making mercuric oxide " no woman, dog or fowl may look 
on during the operation." Cinnabar is termed the " immortal elixir," 
the equivalent of the philosopher's stone of the West. This ore was 
investigated, according to the Rev. J. Edkins, by Chinese alchemists 
as early as the Christian era. Cinnabar is considered to be at the 
head of all metals and minerals, and to be capable of transmutation in 
equal periods of two hundred years into any of the five principal 
metals, ending with gold. Children were formerly dosed with this 
drug as soon as born, possibly with an idea of warding off congenital 
syphilis. Small quantities are worn in bags by children to drive away 
spirits and chorea. In a portion of China the entire population on 
the fifth day of the fifth month (a 'festival) take a small dose as a 
prophylactic. Calomel. — The writer finds no positive statement that 
it was known in ancient Chinese practice. It is said to be a native 
mineral in Cleyer's Specimen Medicinae. Lochardt mentions it. l An- 

1 Chinese Repository, vol. 18, p. 507. 



490 APPENDIX. 

other authority states that the Chinese apply calomel ointment to 
ulcers. 

Iodine. — No account of this element is given. According to Chinese 
writers sea-weed has been used in the treatment of goitre, this disease 
being common in Sechuen province. The iodides are unknown ; they 
are largely used in the Medical Mission hospitals. 

Bromine. — No account is given of it. 

Iodoform. — Not known. 

Oleum Morrhile — ^he cod has not been met with in Chinese 
waters. The Chinese, so far as known, do not extract the oil from the 
liver of any fish, but they prepare an oil from the entrails of a species 
of fish. Cod-liver oil does not act well on the Chinese. 

Arsenic. — Found in Kiangsi province, it occurs in crystalline masses 
of a grayish or yellowish colour. It is frequently sublimed, and accord- 
ing to the Pen Ts'au the action of the fire is supposed to develop the 
poison in the mineral. Both the mineral and its fumes are known to 
be poisonous. None of the arsenical preparations can be sold in the 
shops without there being witnesses as to the propriety of the sale. 
If the druggist ignorantly -or carelessly breaks this regulation he re- 
ceives eighty blows ; if fatal effects result, the buyer and seller are de- 
capitated j if not fatal, both are strangled. Some such system might 
not be out of place in civilized countries. Tonic, alterative and in- 
secticide properties are ascribed to this mineral. According to the Pen 
Ts'au white arsenic has been used to cure ague. A compound powder 
of arsenic is used ; it contains muricia seeds, croton beans, sal ammo- 
niac, crude arsenic, bitumen and oil of muricia seeds. This mixture 
is to be put into the ground for seven weeks, and then taken up and 
divided into small pieces. It is used as a caustic to destroy proud 
flesh, tumours, etc. This is the favourite mode of dealing with such 
cases by Chinese surgeons. Arsenic is forbidden in eruptions and 
sores. 

Calcium, Salts of. — Calcic carbonate is found in Tung-chau-fu, and 
is confused with gypsum. It is sprinkled upon burns and scalds. Im- 
pure calcic oxide is obtained from kilns. A preparation of lime and oil 
(bearing striking similarity to can-on oil) is described in the Pen Ts'au 
for burns. Calcic sulphate is reputed to be astringent. Mortar and 
putty are officinal in the Pen Ts'au. The calcium salts are but little 
used in Chinese medicine now. 

1 Chinese Mat. Med. and Nat. His., p. 159. 



APPENDIX. 491 

Ammonium. — Sal ammoniac is brought from the province of Kansuh. 
Nitre (NaNo 3 ), borax and sodic sulphate are confounded with it. Its 
chief use is in dissolving corneal opacities. It is also known to act as 
a sedative, deobstruent, and as a mild escharotic. 

Potassic Salts. — Soda and potash salts have never been carefully 
distinguished by Chinese writers. A kind of pearl ash is mentioned 
in the Pen Ts'au as obtained by burning certain polygonaceous plants. 
There is some carbonate in this, which is recommended in dyspepsia. 

Sodic Salts. — Sodium carbonate, the product of the soil, is ob- 
tained from Mongolia and Thibet. Sodium sulphate is found in 
Sechuen, and is often confounded with nitre. The sodium salts are 
used as salines and as purgatives. According to a Tauist priest (a. d. 
627-50) sodium sulphate has the power of causing longevity and im- 
munity from diseases. The Chinese have no soap in general use, and 
do not understand the chemical combination of an alkali and oil. *In 
Manchuria an animal alkali is found. 

Lithium Salts.— No mention is made of lithium. 

Sinapis. — S. alba is not indigenous in China, but brought from 
Asia to the province of Sechuen. S. nigra is indigenous. It is sup- 
posed to act as well on the lungs as on the stomach. 

Burgundy Pitch. — The Pen Ts'au refers to the product of conif- 
erous trees. It would seem that the preparation of pitch was not 
understood. 

Zinc— The Chinese do not carefully distinguish zinc from tin? 
lead, antimony and pewter. They do not well understand the astrin- 
gent properties of zinc salts, except calamine. Tutty (ZnO), from 
' tutum," a Tamul word, is unknown. 

Water. — The Pen Ts'au places water at the head of all medicinal 
agents, and fully discusses its conditions and uses. It is placed in 
the front of the sixteen divisions of all known substances, being 
divided into the celestial and terrestrial kinds. The hydropathic 
system seems to have been in vogue in the time of the great surgeon 
2 Hwa-to, who practiced the use of the cold douche. The haemostatic 
properties of water are insisted on, especially in uterine hemorrhage- 
In cases of poisoning by carbonic acid gas and by the excessive use of 
alcohol cold compresses have been laid on the chest to excite respiration. 
The local application of water to the eyes has been intelligently de- 

1 Treaty Ports of China and Japan, p. 484. 

2 Han dynasty, b. c. 202 to a. d. 221. 



492 APPENDIX. 

scribed. Hot water is often drunk by the Chinese as an antidote, 
diuretic and laxative, and sea water is recommended in scaly eruptions. 
The water in which the five precious metals have been boiled, viz., 
gold, silver, copper, iron and tin, is a popular domestic remedy in ac- 
cidents of any kind. 

Acacia. — A gummy extract is obtained from different species of 
acacia, which is employed as a plaster, and as a retentive agent in 
fractures and sprains. 

Tragacanth. — No account is given of it. 

Linum. — Not indigenous ; the seeds are confused with sesamum. 

Ulmus. — 1 U. chinensis and U. pumila are stated to be Chinese 
species of the elm. The bark is the part used. Both this and the 
sawdust enter into the composition of incense. Demulcent properties 
are referred to this bark. 

Althea. — It is doubtful whether the A. officinalis is found in 
China. 

Sesamum. — The S. indicum is extensively cultivated in China for 
the sake of its seeds, which are used in Chinese confections. Two 
sorts of seeds are known — the white and black. An expressed oil is 
obtained from these, which keeps well, and is well adapted as a sub- 
stitute for olive oil. 

Cydonium. — The C. japonica grows in Sechuen. The seeds are 
demulcent, and are used in diarrhoea. 

Liquorice. — Two kinds are known : the Grlycerrhiza glabra and 
the Gr. echinata. They are found in Shanshi, Kansuh, and in Sechuen. 
Liquorice root stands next to ginseng in importance in Chinese phar- 
macy. It enters into a large number of prescriptions as an adjunct. 
It is also used to allay thirst, fevers, and distress of breathing. It is 
thought to have the power of rejuvenating those who consume it for 
a long period. The Chinese do not make an extract of the root. 

Irish Moss. — No mention is made of the Chondrus crispus. Sev- 
eral species of marine algae are found from Shantung to southern 
China, also along the Corean and Japanese coasts, which are used as 
food. 

Iceland Moss — No mention is made of it. 

Amylum. — The Pen Ts'au states that starch is prepared from 
wheaten flour by washing and separation. 

Maranta. — The best native arrow-root comes from the provinces 

1 Flora of China, Burnett. 



APPENDIX. 493 

of Kiangsi and ChehkiaDg. The process by which it is made is not 
mentioned in the Pen Ts'au. 

Canna. — No mention is made of it. 

Tapioca. — The writer can find no account of it. 

Sago. — The Chinese account in the Pen Ts'au seems to point to a 
sago palm, but of what species is not known. This work credits the 
article with nutritive properties. 

Barley. — The Hordeum distichon is the common kind met with. 
The uses of barley as food for man and beast and as a source of 
spirit are indicated in the Pen Ts'au. Writers quoted in this work 
ascribe to it tonic and demulcent properties. 

Rice. — Forms the bulk of Chinese food. Before eating, the Chi- 
nese steam the grain. Rice ashes are used as an alkaline remedy in 
urinary diseases. 

Maize. — Introduced probably from Japan, is largely cultivated in 
all parts of China. It is used as an article of diet. 

Salep. — No account is given of it. 

Isinglass. — Is made from fish and also from sea-weed. The Pen 
Ts'au speaks of isinglass plaster for wounds. 

Lard. — Obtained from the hog by the Chinese. Lard is but little 
used in the preparation of ointments by the Chinese. 

Suet. — Made from the fat of sheep. Reputed to be of service in 
coughs, but the Chinese dislike to use animal fats. This has led to 
the discovery and employment of many vegetable oils. 

Spermaceti. — The whale is known to the Chinese, but so far as 
ascertained this substance is not spoken of in their books. 

Wax. — Known to the Chinese as the product of an insect. A 
kind of wax bolus is brought from Canton and is much used as a pec- 
toral dose. White wax is taken internally after accidents. 

Oleum Theobrom^e. — No mention is made of it. 

G-LTCERTN. — Unknown. 

Collodion. — Unknown. Since its introduction it finds great favour 
with the Chinese, who are fond of sealing up wounds. 

Sugar. — Has been known for ages by the Chinese. It is stated 
that the too free use of sugar damages the teeth and digestive apparatus. 

Honey. — This was formerly confounded with sugar. It was much 
used as a pill excipient, and has been applied to the eye in cataract. 

Saffron. — Originally brought to northern China from Thibet. It 
is given in incipient small-pox to bring out the eruption, and in men- 
strual diseases. 



494 APPENDIX. 

Santalum. — The wood of the Pterocarpus santolinus is used as a 
tonic and astringent. On account of the red colour of the wood it is 
supposed to act on the blood. The tree grows in Canton and Yunnan 
provinces. *An oil is made from the wood. 

Cochineal. — Is not mentioned in the Pen Ts'au. Is imported into 
southern China, the Cantonese having learned its use as a dye. 

Spigelia. — Not mentioned. 

Chenopodium. — Five varieties are described in the Pen Ts'au, 
though the C. anthelminticum is not given. Cooling, lenitive, de- 
mulcent and insecticide properties are ascribed to the seeds. 

Santonica. — The Artemisia cina is not spoken of. Many species 
of artemisia are given in the Pen Ts'au, some of which are used, es- 
pecially the A. dracunculus, which is used in vermes. 

Azedarach. — The Melia azedarach is common in the province of 
Hupeh. The root and bark are used in the treatment of skin diseases. 
The seeds of the fruit are used in fevers, fluxes, vermes and urinary 
diseases. The root has emetic properties. 

Mucuna. — No account is given of it. 

Filix Mas. — No account is given of it. 2 Found in shady localities 
in Asia. 

Brayera. — No account is given of it. 

Kamala. — No account is given of it. 3 Burnett mentions two 
species. 

Pepo. — The seeds of the Cucurbita pepo are eaten as a dessert with 
tea. Nothing is said about their anthelmintic virtues. 

SOME MEDICINES PECULIAR TO THE CHINESE MATERIA MEDICA. 
Ginseng. — A drug of great reputation; in point of importance and 
uses corresponds to our cinchona. It is the root of an araliaceous 
plant — the Panax ginseng. It is brought from Shingking and Pehehi- 
hli provinces. The plant grows also in Manchuria and Corea. The 
portion used is the root, which comes to market about the size of a 
man's finger, with small rootlets attached. These are yellowish, semi- 
transparent, and of a sweet, mucilaginous taste. The trade in this 
drug is large. Its effects are alterative, tonic, stimulant and demul- 
cent, and it is prescribed in almost every severe disease. The leaves are 
said to be expectorant and emetic. 

1 Chinese Repository, vol. 2, p. 469. 

2 Pharmacopoeia of India, p. 259. 

3 Flora of China, p. 253. 



APPENDIX. 495 

Birds' Nest. — This expensive article, which is used as food for the 
wealthy and as medicine by the sick, ranks after ginseng in import- 
ance. It is the gelatinous nest of a species of swallow found in Java, 
Borneo, etc., the bird seemingly constructing the nest out of sea-weed. 
They are thus described : " Externally resembling ill-concocted fibrous 
isinglass, and of a white colour inclining to red ; their thickness is little 
more than that of a silver spoon, and their weight from J to J ounce." 
They are sold in all Chinese drug shops. The birds' nest, as an 
article of diet or physic, is of recent origin, for no mention is made 
of it in the Pen Ts l au. They appear only on the tables of the rich 
or on grand occasions, and according to our taste are overrated. 2 J. B. 
Young alludes to birds' nest soup as an inferior ragout. 

Areca. — The fruit of the Areca catechu, a tree varying a good deal 
in height, which, according to the Pen Ts'au, grows in Yunnan, Kwangsi, 
and in the island of Hainan. The nuts average from f of an inch to 
1 inch in length. They yield a large proportion of tannin and gallic- 
acid. Tonic, astringent and anthelmintic virtues are ascribed to the 
nut. 

Bat's Dung. — A coarse brown powder like tea dust. Used inter- 
nally in ophthalmic affections, dyspepsia, ague, cough and offensive per- 
spirations (on the principle, set a thief to catch a thief), and is applied 
locally with sugar to foul ulcers. 

Bear's Gall. — Is obtained as a soft black bolus of an aromatic- 
flavour. It is hard to procure, and expensive, and is used homeopath- 
ically as an anthelmintic, astringent, and in hepatic affections. 

Dragon's Bones. — A fossil ivory. Is powdered, and given in 
fevers, fluxes, chorea and spermatorrhoea. 

Dragon's Blood. — A misnomer. Is a gum brought from Java 
and Borneo, and is said to be met with in southern China. Chinese 
medical writers ascribe to it astringent virtues. 

Dragon's Spittle. — A costly gummy substance found floating in 
the sea or obtained from the belly of a fish inhabiting the Indian Ocean. 
The dragon is said to cough up this substance. The Chinese ascribe 
to it wonderful healing powers. 

Dragon's Teeth. — Are fossil teeth, found in the marly beds in 
the vicinity of Shanghai. They are thought to act on the liver. 

Dung of the Sparrow. — This mixed with peppercorns, powdered. 

1 Chinese Commercial Guide, p. 82. 

2 Around the World with Grant, vol. 2, article on Canton. 



496 APPENDIX. 

and spirits of wine added, is said to diminish the pain in opening 
abscesses. 

Dung of the Magpie. — The nest is burnt, and the ashes given 
in nervous diseases. 

Dung of the Pigeon. — Is employed in veterinary practice (a 
matter of congratulation to feel that mankind alone does not require 
such physic). 

The dung of other birds is also used. 

Tiger's Bones. — All are set down in the Pen Ts'au as having 
medicinal properties. The tibiae and skull bones are esteemed for 
making a tincture, used in rheumatism, ague and debility. 

Dew. — Dew collected on the morning of the first day of the eighth 
month, and mixed with native ink, is said to be good for headaches, 
applied to the temples. 

Snakes. — The flesh, skin, head and tail of several kinds of snakes 
are used in Chinese medicine. The skin of the white spotted snake 
is employed in leprosy. 

Rhinoceros Horn. — The horns of strong beasts are thought to 
be tonic and alterative. 

Balsam Seeds. — Balsam seeds are directed to be taken by a woman 
in childbirth, the soles of her feet, at the same time, being rubbed 
with as many castor-oil beans as she is years of age. 

Fowls. — Black-boned fowls are much prized for making soup for 
those suffering from lung diseases. 

Elephant's Hide — This is taken as a remedy by those having 
wounds difficult to heal. 

SUMMARY. 

I. That the various vegetable remedies of China are not found, as 
a rule, south of the equator, and the reverse. This is especially true 
of South American drugs. 

II. That the use of arsenic in the cure of malaria has been known 
for a considerable period to the Chinese. (See p. 490, this article ; 
also Chinese Repository, vol. 18, p. 507.) 

III. That the application of the cold douche in bringing about 
consciousness in cases of poisoning by alcohol, etc., has been known 
to the Chinese since the Christian era. 

IV. That they were in the habit of administering sarsaparilla in 
syphilis. 



APPENDIX. 497 

Authorities Referred to. — The Chinese Repository, 20 vols., 
1832-1851. Chinese Materia Medica and Natural History, Shang- 
hai, 1870, Smith. Melanges Asiatiques, Remusat, 2 vols., 1825. 
Eitel, Hand-book of Chinese Buddhism. Icones Plantarum Japoni- 
carum, Thunberg, with flor. Japan, 1794. Treaty Ports of China 
and Japan, Mayer, 1867. Translation of four anatomical diagrams, 
Harland, 1846. The Poppy Plague, 1876. The Middle Kingdom, 
2 vols., 1876. Pharmacopoeia of India, Waring. History of China, 
1823. Lochardt's Medical Missionary in China. Staunton's Em- 
bassy, 2 vols., 1797. Flora of China, Burnett, in 3d volume of an 
Historical and Descriptive Account of China, 1836. 



32 



INDEX 



Abbreviations, table of, 471 
Abies balsamea, 334 

canadensis, 424 

excelsa, 423 

picea, 423 
Absinthe,' 131 
Absinthin, 130 
Absinthium, 130 
Abstract of aconite, 217 

conium. 257 

digitalis, 252 

ignatia, 244 

jalap, 298 

nux vomica, 244 

podophyllum, 300 

senega, 332 
Abstractum aconiti, 217 

conii, 257 

digitalis, 252 

ignatiae, 244 

jalapae, 298 

nucis vomicae, 244 

podophylli, 300 

senegee, 332 
Acacia, 440 

catechu, 178 

nilotica, 441 

verek, 440 
Aceta, 37 
Acetic acid, 238 

diluted, 238 

glacial, 238 
Acetum lobelise, 85 

opii, 64 

sanguinariae, 271 

scillae, 321 
Achillea, 133 

infusion of, 133 

millefolium, 133 

oil of, 133 
Achillein, 133 
Acid acetic, 238 

aconitic, 86, 133 

anemonic, 223 

angelic, 264 

anthemic, 128, 129 

arabic, 442 

aromatic sulphuric, 170 

arsenious, 434 

benzoic, 346, 348, 417 

boheic, 115 



Acid boracic, 415 
boric, 415 
caffeic, 115 
caffeo-tannic, 115 
cambogic, 304 
cantharidic, 427 
carbolic, 405 
carminic, 461 
catechuic, 178 
catechu-tannic, 178 
cathartic, 294 
cerylic, 144 
cetraric, 449 
chelidoninic, 300 
chromic, 434 
chrysophanic, 437 
cincho-tannic, 136 
cinnamic, 206, 346, 347, 348 
citric, 238 
cocatannic, 116 
columbic, 125 
copaivic, 338 
cornic, 146 
cresylic, 409 
cubebic, 339 
cyanohydric, 92 
diluted acetic, 238 

hydrocyanic, 92 

hydrochloric, 173 

muriatic, 173 

nitric, 172 

nitro-hydrochloric, 173 

nitro-muriatic, 173 

sulphuric, 170 

phosphoric, 385 
eruic, 420 
eugenic, 208 
euonic, 302 
felicic, 467 
ferulaic, 110 
gallic, 176, 177 
gelseminic, 224 
gentisic, 123, 124 
glacial acetic, 238 
guaiacic, 315 
guaiaconic, 315 
guaiaretic, 315 
gummic, 442 
hydrochloric, 172 
ipecacuanhic, 267 
juglandic, 290 



500 



INDEX. 



Acid kinic, 135 

kinovic, 136 

kramero-tannic, 180 

lactic, 459 

lobelic, 83 

margaric, 454 

meconic, 58 

mino-tannic, 175 

muriatic, 172 

myrrhic, 345 

nitrate of mercury, 357, 367, 436 

nitric, 171 

nitro-hydrochloric, 173 

nitro-muriatic, 173 

cenanthic, 197 

oleic, 452, 454 

ophelic, 126 

phenic, 405 

phosphoric, 385 

polygalic, 331 

potassium tartrate, 319 

prussic, 92 

pyroligneous, 336 

querci-tannic, 181 

rhatania-tannic, 180 

rhatanic, 180 

rheo-tannic, 289 

rheumic, 289 

salicylic, 411 

santalic, 461 

sclerotic, 246 

stearic, 454 

succinic, 118 

sulphuric, 169 

sulphurous, 170 

tannic, 174, 177, 181, i83, 185 

tartaric, 239 

tiglinic, 306 

toxicodendric, 244 

valerianic, 113, 129 
Acida mineralia, 168, 436 

vegetabilia, 237 
Acids, mineral, 168, 436 

vegetable, 237 
Acidum aceticum, 238 
dilutum, 238 
glaciale, 238 

arseniosum, 378, 434 

benzoicum, 417 

boricum, 415 

carbolicum, 405 
crudum, 405 

chromicum, 434 

citricum, 238 

gallicum, 176 

hydrochloricum, 172 
dilutum, 173 

hydrocyanicum dilutum, 92 

lacticum, 459 

nitricum, 171 



Acidum nitricum dilutum, 172 

nitro-hydrochloricum, 173 
dilutum, 174 

oleicum, 452 

phosphoricum dilutum, 385 

salicylicum, 411 

sulphuricum, 169 
aromaticum, 170 
dilutum, 170 

tannicum, 174 

tartaricum, 239 

valerianicum, 113 
Acipenser huso, 451 
Aconite, 85, 217 
Aconitia, 86 
Aconitic acid, 86, 133 
Aconitum, 85, 217 

napellus, 85 
Acorin, 212 
Acorus calamus, 211 
Actual cautery, 24, 437 
Acupuncture, 19 
Adeps, 451 

benzoinatus, 452 
Adhesive plaster, 337 
^Esculin, 224 
^Ether, 100 

fortior, 100 
Agathotes chirata, 126 
Age, influence of on medicinal ef- 
fects, 44 
Alcohol, 193 

amylic, 107, 193 

diluted, 197 

dilutum, 197 
Alcoholic extract of cantharides, 42* 
hyoscyamus, 80 

potassa, 433 
Alder buckthorn, 295 
Algae, 449 
Alkaline carbonates, 319 

salts, 319 
Alkali, volatile, 199 
Allium, 332, 425 

sativum, 332 
Allspice, 208 
Allyl, 333 

sulphoxiyanide, 421 
Almond mixture, 442 
Aloe, 291 

purificata, 292 
Aloes, 291, 349 

Barbadoes, 291 

Cape, 291 

hepatic, 291 
Aloe socotrina, 291 

spicata, 291 

vulgaris, 291 
Aloes purified,. 292 

socatrine, 291 



INDEX. 



501 



Aloin, 292 
Alteratives, 53, 351 
Alterative diaphoretics, 312 
Althaea, 445 

officinalis, 445 
Alum, 191, 272, 436 

ammonio-ferric, 159 
dried, 191, 192 
whey, 192 
Alumen, 191, 2*72, 436 

exsiccatum, 192 
Aluminii sulphas, 192 
Aluminium sulphate, 192 
Amber, 118 

American columbo, 124 
hellebore, 218 
hemp, 88 
poplar, 131 
silver fir, 334 
white turpentine, 333 
Ammonia, 117, 199 

preparations of, 199 
Ammoniac, 112, 348 
Ammoniac plaster with mercury, 

356,358 
Ammoniacum, 112, 348 
Aminoniae aqua, 200 

fortior, 200, 430 
linimentum, 423 
praeparata, 199, 399 
spiritus, 200 

aromaticus, 200, 399 
Ammoniated copper, 161 
glycyrrhizin, 448 
mercury, 357, 366 
tincture of guaiac, 315 

valerian, 113 
tinctures, 35 
Ammonii acetatis liquor, 236 
benzoas, 418 
bromidum, 71 
carbonas, 201 
chloridum, 388 

purificatum, 388 
iodidum, 373 
phosphas, 389 
prseparata, 399 
sulphis, 171 
valerianas, 113 
Ammonio-cupric sulphate, 161 
Ammonio-ferric alum, 159 
Ammonium alum, 191 
benzoate, 418 
carbonate, 201 
chloride, 388 
iodide, 373 
phosphate, 389 
preparations, 399 
sulphite, 171 
Amygdalin, 96, 147 



Amygdalus communis, 96 
Amyl nitrite, 107 
Amylic alcohol, 107, 193 
Amylum, 450 

iodatum, 371, 451 
Anaesthetics, 53, 99 
Anamirta cocculus, 259 
Andira araroba, 437 
Anemone patens, 222 

pretensis, 222 

Pulsatilla, 222 
Anemonic acid, 223 
Anemonin, 223 
Angelic acid, 264 
Angosturine, 132 
Angustura, 131 

false, 132, 248 
Animal fats, 451 
Anise, 216 

star, 216 

water, 216 
Anisum, 216 

Anodyne, Hoffman's, 119 
Antacids, 53, 319, 392 
Anthelmintics, 53, 462 
Anthemic acid, 128, 129 
Anthemis, 128 

cotula, 129 

nobilis, 128 
Anthenaidina, 129 
Antilithics, 393 
Antimonial ointment, 431 

preparations, 310 

powder, 232 

wine, 231 
Antimonious oxide, 228 

sulphide, 231 
purified, 231 
Antimonii oxidura, 228 

et potassii tartras, 228, 272 

sulphidum, 231 

purificatum, 231 

prseparata, 228 

sulphuratum, 231 
Antimonium and potassium tartrate. 

228, 272 
Antimony, pills of, 232 

preparations of, 228 

sulphurated, 231 

tartarized, 228 

wine of, 231 
Antiseptics, 53, 402 
Antispasmodics, 53, 109 
Apiol, 329, 349 
Apis mellifica, 452, 459 
Apocynaceae, 325 
Apocynum, 325 

androsaemifolium, 326 

cannabinum, 325 
Apomorphia, 58 



502 



INDEX. 



Apomorphia hydrochlorate, 271 
Apomorphiae hydrochloras, 271 
Apomorphinas hydrochloras, 271 
Aporaorphine hydrochlorate, 271 
Aporetin, 289 
Apothecaries' weight, 40 

measure, 42 
Apples, 274 

Applications of medicines to the 
skin, 45 

to mucous membranes, 47 
to serous membranes, 50 
to ulcers, wounds, etc., 50 
Approximate measures, 42 
Aqua, 439 

ammonias, 200, 430 
fortior, 200, 430 

amygdalae amarae, 96 

anisi, 216 

aurantii riorum, 214 

camphorse, 98 

chlori, 401 

cinnamomi, 206 

creasoti, 411 

destillata, 439 

fceniculi, 216 

menthae piperitae, 214 
viridis, 214 

rosae, 184 
Aquae, 34 
Arabin, 441 
Arabic acid, 442 
Aracese, 114, 211 
Araroba, 437 
Arbutin, 213, 343, 345 
Arctostaphylos uva ursi, 342 
Argenti nitras, 164 

fusus, 166, 432 

dilutus, 166, 432 

oxidum, 166 

praeparata, 164 
Argol, 286 
Argyria, 165 
Aricina, 136 
Aristolochia reticulata, 127 

serpentaria, 126 
Aristolochiaceae, 127 
Arnica, 225 

montana, 225 

flowers, 225 

root, 225 
Arnicae flores, 225 

radix, 225 
Arnicin, 225 
Aromatic bitters, 120, 126 

powder, 211 

spirit of ammonia, 200, 399 

sulphuric acid, 170 

syrup of rhubarb, 290 



Aromatic wine, 131, 215 
Aromatics, 193, 203 
Arrack, 198 
Arsenic, 378- 

preparations of, 378 

oxide, 378 

white, 378 
Arsenii et hydrargyri iodidi liquor. 
385 

iodidum, 384 

prasparata, 378 
Arsenious acid, 378, 434 
Arseuite of potassium, solution of, 
383 

of sodium, 384 
Artanthe elongata, 341 
Artemisia absinthium, 130 

maritima, 465 
Arteriotomy, 17 
Artificial camphor, 97 

musk, 118 
Asafetida, 110, 348 
Asafoetida, 110, 348 
Asagraea officinalis, 221 
Asaparagin, 446 
Aspidium, 467 

filix-mas, 467 

marginale, 467 
Aspiration, 20 
Aspirator, 20 
Astragalus gummifer, 442' 
Astringent bitters, 121, 133 
Astringents, 53, 174 

mineral, 174, 185 

vegetable, 174 
Atomization of fluids, 48 
Atomizers, 49 
Atropa belladonna, 73 
Atropia, 73 

sulphate of, 74 
Aurantiaceae, 213 
Aurantii amari cortex, 213 

dulcis cortex, 213 

flores, 214 
Auric and sodium chloride, 368 
Auri et sodii chloridum, 368 
Azedarach, 466 

Balm of Gilead tree, 334 
Balsam of fir, 334 

Peru, 347 

Tolu, 348 
Balsamodendron myrrha. 345 
Balsams, 346, 347, 348 
Balsamum Peruvianum, 347 

Tolutanum, 348 
Bandages, 19 
Barbadoes aloes, 291 
Barbary gum, 441 
Barberry, 126 



INDEX. 



503 



Barilla, 396 

Bark of cotton root, 248 
Barley sugar, 458 
Barosma betulina, 342 

crenulata, 342 

serratifolia, 342 
Basham's mixture, 155 
Basic quinia sulphate, 142 
Basilicon ointment, 337 
Bassora gum, 441 
Bassorin, 442 
Baths, 25 

of iodine, 371 

nitro-hydrochloricacid, 173 
sodium arseniate, 384 
Baunscheidtismus, 20 
Bay rum, 198 
Bean of St. Ignatius, 244 
Bearberry, 342 
Bebeeria, 147 

sulphate, 148 
Bebeeru bark, 147 
Bee, 452, 459 
Beet-root sugar, 458 
Belladonna, 73 

leaves, 73 

root, 73 
Belladonna? folia, 73 

radix, 73 
Benjamin tree, 346 
Benne oil, 446 
Benzoate of ammonia, 418 

lithium, 399 
Benzoe amygdaloides, 346 

in sortis, 346 
Benzoic acid, 346, 348, 417 

aldehyde, 96 
Benzoin, 346 
Benzoinated lard, 452 

ointment, 452 
Benzoinum, 346 

Berberia, 122, 125, 126, 300, 316, 329 
Berberidaceae, 299 

Berberina, 122, 125, 126, 300, 316, 329 
Berberine, 122, 125, 126, 300, 316, 329 
Beta-colchicoresin, 322 
Bhang, 88 
Bicarbonate of potassium, 395 

sodium, 397 
Bichloride of methylene, 106 

mercury, 357, 362, 436 
Bichromate of potassium, 391, 436 
Bismuth, citrate of, 167 

subcarbonate of, 167 

subnitrate of, 166 

valerianate of, 167 
Bismuthi et ammonii citras, 167 

subcarbonas, 167 

subnitras, 166 
Bisulphate of quinine, 142 



Bitartrate of potassium, 286 
Bitter almond water, 96 

cucumber, 303 

orange, 213 

wine of iron, 158 
Bittern, 282 
Bitters, aromatic, 120, 126 

astringent, 121, 133 

simple, 120 
Bittersweet, 91 
Black draught, 294 

drop, 64 

ginger, 210 

haw, 261 

mustard, 420 

nightshade, 91 

oak, 181 

pepper, 205, 425 

snakeroot, 252 

wash, 360 
Blackberry, 185 

Blennorrheas, 53, 318. 320. 330, 349 
Blistering cerate, 428 
Blisters, 419, 425 
Bloodletting, 17, 18 
Bloodroot, 269 
Blue gum-tree, 144 

mass, 308, 356, 357 

ointment, 356, 35£ 

pills, 308, 356, 357 

stone, 160 

vitriol, 160 
Boheic acid, 115 
Bone-ash, 201 

phosphate of calcium. 386 
Boneset, 129 
Boracic acid, 412 
Borate of sodium, 416 
Borax, 416 

Bordeaux turpentine, 334 
Boric acid, 415 
Borneo camphor, 97 
Botanv Bay kino, 179 
Bran, 274 
Brandy, 198 
Brayera, 468 

anthelmintica, 468 
Brazilian sarsaparilla, 313 
British barilla, 396 
Bromide of ammonium, 71 

calcium, 72 

lithium, 72 

sodium, 72 

potassium, 67 
' Bromides, 67 
Bromine, 405, 435 
Bromism, 69 
Bromum, 4C 
Broom, 328 
Brown mixture, 448 



504 



INDEX. 



Brucia, 241, 242, 244 
Brucine, 241, 242, 244 
Bryonia, 298 

alba, 298 

diorca, 298 
Bryonin, 298 
Bryony, 298 
Buchu, 342 
Buckthorn, 295 
Burgundy pitch, 424 

plaster, 424 

spurious, 424 
Burnett's disinfectant fluid, 161 
Burseraceae, 345 
Butea frondosa, 179 
Butter melted, 279 

of cocoa, 453 

of nutmeg, 207 
Butternut, 290 

Cacao butter, 453 
Caffea arabica, 115 
Caffeic acid, 115 
Caffeina, 115, 116 

citrate, 116 

valerianate, 116 
Caffeo-tannic acid, 115 
Cajeput oil, 208 
Calabar bean, 257 
Calabria, 257 
Calamina prseparata, 163 
Calamine, 163 
Calamus, 163 
Calcii bromidum, 72 
Calcii carbonas prsecipitatus, 401 

chloridum, 388 

hypophosphis, 386 

phosphas prsecipitatus, 386 

praeparata, 400 

sulphis, 171 
Calcined magnesia, 281 
Calcium, chloride of, 388 
Calcium, precipitated carbonate of, 
401 

hypophosphite of, 386 

precipitated phosphate of, 386 

preparations of, 400 

sulphide of, 171 

sulphite of, 171 

sulpho-carbolate, 409 
Calendula, 316 

officinalis, 316 
Calendulin, 316 
Calisaya bark, 134 
Calomel, 307, 357, 360, 368 
Caior, 23 
Calumb, 125 
Calumba, 125 
Calx chlorata, 404 

snlphurata. 171 



Cambogia, 304 
Cambogic acid, 304 
Camphor, 96 

artificial, 97 

laurel, 96 

liniment, 98 

mixture, Hope's, 172 

monobromated, 99 

water, 98 
Camphora, 96 

officinarum, 96 
Camphorated tincture of opium, 63 
Camphoric acid, 97 
Camphoronic acid, 97 
Canada balsam, 334 

fleabane, 324 

moonseed, 316 

pitch, 424 

plaster, 425 

turpentine, 334 
Candy, rock, 459 
Cane, sugar, 458, 459 
Canella, 133 

alba, J33 
Canellacese, 133 
Cannabin, 89 
Cannabis Americana, 88 

Indica, 88, 326 

sativa, 88 
Canabene, 89 

hydride, 89 
Cantharidal collodion, 430 

liniment, 429 
Cantharidin, 427, 430 
Cantharides, 329, 349, 426 

cerate of, 428 

paper of, 430 
Cantharidic acid, 427 
Cantharis, 329, 349, 426 

vesicatoria, 426 

vittata, 430 
Cape aloes, 291 
Caprifoliacese, 261, 296 
Capsaicin, 204 
Capsicum, 204, 422 

African, 204 

fastigiatum, 204 
Caraccas kino, 179 
Caraway, 216 
Carbo ligni, 460 
Carbolate of potassium, 409 

quinia, 143 

sodium, 409 
Carbolic acid, 405 

crude, 405 

ointment of, 409 
Carbon, tetrachloride of, 108 
Carbonate of ammonium, 201 

calcium, precipitated, 401 

iron, pill of, 152 



INDEX. 



505 



Carbonate of lead, 190 

lithium, 398 

magnesium, 282, 399 

potassium, 394 
pure, 394 

sodium, 397 
dried, 397 

zinc, precipitated, 163 
Carbonates of sodium, 396 
Carbonic acid water, 440 
Cardamom, 211 
Cardamomum, 211 
Carminatives, 193 
Carminic acid, 461 
Carolina pink, 462 

jasmine, 223 
Carrageen, 449 
Carrageenin, 449 
Carron oil, 409 
Cartagena barks, 135 
Carum, 216 

carvi, 216 
Caryophyllin, 208 
Caryophyllus, 207 

aromaticus, 207 
Cascara sagrada, 296 
Cascarilla, 132 
Cascarillin, 132 
Cassia, 293 

acutifolia, 293 

aethiopica, 298 

cinnamon. 206 

elongata, 293 

fistula, 277 

lanceolata, 293 

obovata, 293 
Castanea, 185 

vesca, 185 
Castor oil, 277 
Cataplasmata, 39 
Cataplasms, 39, 422, 439 
Catechin, 178 
Catechu, 178 
Catechuic acid, 178 
Catechu-tannic acid, 178 
Cathartic acid, 294 
Cathartics, 53, 273 
Catharto-mannite, 294 
Caustic potassa, 432 

soda, 434 
Cauterants, 431 
Cautery, actual, 24, 437 

galvano, 27 
Cauterization, 24 
Cedar, red, 350 
Celandine, 300 
Celastraceae, 301 
Centaury, 124 

American, 124 
Cephaelis ipecacuanha, 266 



Cera alba, 452 

flava, 452 
Cerasus serotina, 147 
Cerata, 39 
Cerate, 39, 452 

blistering, 428 

of calamine, 163 

of cantharides, 428 

carbonate of zinc, 163 

extract of cantharides, 429 

lead, subacetate, 189 

sabine, 350 

spermaceti, 452 

resin, 337 

Turner's, 163 
Cerates, 39, 452 
Ceratum, 39, 452 

camphorse, 99 

cantharidis, 428 

cetacei, 452 

extracti cantharidis, 429 

plumbi subacetatis, 189 

resinae, 337 

sabinae, 350 
Cerii oxalas, 168 
Cerite, 168 
Cerium, nitrate of, 168 

oxalate of, 168 
Cerylic acid, 144 
Cetaceum, 452 
Cetine, 452 
Cetraria, 448 

islandica, 448 
Cetraric acid, 449 
Cetrarin, 449 
Cetyl palmitate, 452 
Cevadilla, 221 
Cayenne pepper, 204 
Ceylon cinnamon, 205 
Chalk, 401 

mixture, 401 

prepared, 401 
Chalybeates, 149, 349, 351 
Chamomile, 128 

German, 129 

wild, 129 
Champagne, 198 

Chapman's copaiba mixture, 338 
Charcoal, 460 
Charta cantharidis, 430 

potassii nitratis, 235 

sinapis, 422 
Chartae, 33 
Chelerythrine, 300 
Chelidonine, 300 
Chelidoninic acid, 300 
Chelidonium, 300 

majus, 300 
Chenopodiaceae, 464 
Chenopodium, 464 



506 



INDEX, 



Chenopodium ambrosioides, 464 
Chestnut, 185 
Chian turpentine, 334 
Chimaphila, 344 

maculata, 344 

umbellata, 344 
China camphor, 97 

cinnamon, 205 

musk, 117 
Chinese rhubarb, 288 
Chinoidin, 143 
Chinoidinum, 143 
Chirata, 126 
Chiratin, 126 
Chittem bark, 296 
Chloral, 65 

alcoholate, 65 
Chlorate of potassium, 390 
Chlorhydric acid, 172 

diluted, 173 
Chloride of ammonium, 388 

calcium, 388 

gold and sodium, 368 

iron, 154 

solution of, 155 
tincture of, 155 

lime, 388, 404 

zinc, 163, 435 

solution of, 163 
Chlorinated lime, 404 

soda, solution of, 405 
Chlorine, 404 

water, 404 
Chlorodyne, 106 
Chloroform, 103 

commercial, 103 

liniment, 106 

purified, 103 
Chloroformum, 103 

purificatum, 103 

venale, 103 
Chocolate, 116 
Chocolate-nuts, 453 
Cholagogues, mercurials as, 307-, 356 
Cholesterin, 117 

Chondodendron tomentosum, 341 
Chondrus, 449 

crispus, 449 

mammilosus, 449 
Chromic acid, 434 

anhydride, 434 
Chromogene, 249 
Chrysarobin, 437 
Chrysarobinum, 437 
Chrysophan, 289 
Chrysophanic acid, 289, 294, 437 
Churrus, 88 
Cicuta, 257 
Cimicifuga, 252 

racemosa, 252 



Cinchona, 133 

calisaya, 134 

condaminea, 134 

flava, 134 

micrantha, 134 

officinalis, 134 

ovata, 134 

pallida, 134 

rubra, 134 

rugosa, 134 

succirubra, 134 
Cinchonia, 134, 135, 137 

sulphate, 143 
Cinchonise sulphas, 143 
Cinchonicia, 137, 143 
Cinchonicine, 137, 143 
Cinchonidia, 136, 137 

sulphate, 144 
Cinchonidiae sulphas, 144 
Cinchonidina, 136, 137 
Cinchonidinae sulphas, 144 
Cinchonidine, 136, 137 

sulphate, 144 
Cinchoniae sulphas, 143 
Cinchonina, 134, 135, 137 
Cinchoninae sulphas, 143 
Cinchonine, 134, 135, 137 

sulphate, 143 
Cincho-tannic acid, 136 
Cinnabar, 352, 366 
Cinnamic acid, 206, 346, 347, 348 
Cinnamomum, 205 

zeylanicum, 205 
Cinnamon, 205 

cassia, 206 

Ceylon, 205 

China, 205 

water, 206 
Cissampelina, 341 
Citrate of bismuth, 167 

bismuth and ammonium, 167 

caffeina, 116 

iron, 157 

wine, 159 

and ammonium, 158 

and quinia, 158 

solution, 158 
and strychnia, 159 

lithium, 399 

magnesium, solution of, 283 

potassium, 235 

mixture of, 235 
solution of, 235 

quinia, 143 
Citric acid, 238 

syrup of, 238 
Citrine ointment, 357, 367 
Citrullus colocynthis, 303 
Citrus aurantium, 213 

limonum, 239 



INDEX. 



507 



Citrus vulgaris, 213 
Clarified honey, 459 
Classification of med 
Claviceps purpurea, 245 
Climate, influence of, on medicinal 
effects, 42 

on plants, 31 
Cloves, 207 
Clysters, 50 
Coca, 116 
Cocaiana, 116 
Cocatannic acid, 116 
Coccoloba uvifera, 179 
Cocculus, 259 

Indicus, 259 

palmatus, 125 
Coccus, 461 

cacti, 461 
Cochineal, 461 
Codamia, 56 
Codeia, 56, 57 
Cod-liver oil, 375 

phosphorated, 378 
Coffea Arabica, 115 
Coffee, 115 
Cohosh, 252 
Colchicein, 322 
Colchici radix, 322 

semen, 322 
Colchicia, 322, 324 
Colchicina, 322, 324 
Colchicine, 322, 324 
Colchico-resin, 322 
Colchicum, 322 

autumnale, 322 

root, 322 

seed, 322 
Cold, 23, 24 

bath, 25 

compresses, 25 

cream, 184 

pack, 25 
Colica Pictonum, 186 
Collodion, 456 

flexible, 457 

styptic, 457 

with cantharides, 430 
Collodium, 456 

flexile, 457 

stypticum, 457 

cum cantharide, 430 
Collyria, 47 
Colocynth, 303 
Colocynthin, 303 
Colocynthis, 303 
Colocynthitin, 303 
Colombin, 125 
Cologne water, 215 
Colouring agents, 53, 460 



Columbo, 125 

American, 124 
Commercial chloroform, 103 
sodium bicarbonate, 397 
Composite, 72, 128, 129, 130, 133, 

225, 262, 316, 324, 326, 465 
Compound cathartic pills, 305 
chalk powder, 401 
decoction of sarsaparilla, 314 
effervescing powder, 287 
extract of colocynth, 287 
fluid extract of sarsaparilla, 314 
infusion of catechu, 178 
rose, 184 
senna, 294 
iron mixture, 153 
pills, 153, 346 
jalap powder, 286 
liquorice mixture, 448 
liniment of mustard, 448 
mixture of glycyrrhizae, 448 
iron, 153, 346 
liquorice, 448 
pills of antimony, 232 
galbanum, 112, 346 
iron, 153 
rhubarb, 290 
plaster of galbanum, 112 
powder of jalap, 298 
liquorice, 295 
morphia, 64 
rhubarb, 290 
resin cerate, 337 
solution of iodine, 371 
spirit of ether, 119 
juniper, 328 
lavender, 214 
syrup of sarsaparilla, 314 

squill, 321, 332 - 
tincture of benzoin, 347 
cardamom, 211 
cinchona, 141 
gentian, 123 
iodine, 371 
Compounds of amyl, 107 
Compressed pills, 33 
Condy's fluid, 404 . 
Confectio rosae, 184 

sennae, 275, 277, 294 
Confection, rose, 184 

senna, 275,277, 294 
Confectiones, 33 
Confections, 33 
Conhydrina, 255 
Conia, 255 
Coniferee, 208, 328, 333, 334, 349, 423, 

424 
Conine, 255 
Conium, 254 

maculatum, 254 



508 



INDEX. 



Conserves, 33 
Convolvulaceae, 297, 302 
Convolvulin, 297 
Convolvulus scanimonia, 302 
Copaiba, 337 
Copaifera, 337 

Langsdorfii, 337 
Copaivic acid, 338 
Copper, ammoniated, 161 

preparations of, 160 

subacetate of, 161 

sulphate of, 160, 272, 436 
Copperas, 153 
Coptina, 122 
Coptis, 122 

teeta, 122 

trifolia, 122 
Coriander, 216 
Coriandrum, 216 

sativum, 216 
Corn ergot, 248 

smut, 248 
Cornacese, 145 
Cornic acid, 146 
Cornin, 146 
Cornus, 145 

circinata, 146 

Florida, 145 

sericea, 146 
Corroborants, 119 

Corrosive chloride of mercury, 357, 
362, 436 

sublimate, 357, 362, 436 
Cosmoline, 455 
Cotton, 249 

root, bark of, 248 
Cotula, 129 
Court-plaster, 451 
Couch-grass, 327 
Cowling's scheme for doses, 44 
Cox's hive syrup, 321 
Cranesbill, 182 
Cream of tartar, 286, 319 
Creasol, 410 
Creasote, 336, 410 

water, 411 
Creasotum, 410 _ 
Cresylic acid, 409 
Cresylol, 410 
Creta prseparata, 401 
Crocus, 460 

sativus, 460 
Croton eluteria, 132 

oil, 306, 431 

tiglium, 306 
Crotonol, 306 
Crowfoot, 182 
Cruciferae, 272, 420 
Crude carbolic acid, 405 

liquorice, 448 



Crude quinine, 143 

tartar, 286 
Cryolite, 396 
Cryptopia, 58 
Cubeb, 339 
Cubeba, 339 

officinalis, 339 
Cubebic acid, 339 
Cubebin, 339 
Cubic nitre, 235 
Cuca, 116 
Cucumber, bitter, 303 

squirting, 305 
Cucurbita pepo, 469 
Cucurbitaceae, 298, 303, 305, 469 
Cultivation, influence of, on plants, 

42 
Culver's root, 295 

physic, 295 
Cupping, 18, 19 . 

dry, 18 

wet, 18 
Cupri prasparata, 160 

subacetas, 161 

sulphas, 161, 272, 436 
Cupric sulphate, 160, 272, 436 
Cupuliferas, 177, 181, 185 
Cuprum ammoniatum, 159 
Cups, 18 
Curare, 260 
Curaria, 260 
Curarine, 260, 261 
Cusparin, 132 
Cyanide of potassium, 95 

mercury, 357, 365 
Cyanohydric acid, 92 
Cydonia vulgaris, 446 
Cydonium, 446 
Cynanchum oleaefolium, 293 
Cymene, 215 
Cymol, 97, 144 
Cymylic phenol, 418 
Cynips querctisfolii, 177 
Cypripedium, 114 

pubescens, 114 

Dandelion, 326 

Daphne mezereum, 315 

Daphnin, 315 

Darkness, 23 

Datura stramonium, 77 

Daturia, 78 

Deadly nightshade, 73 

Decimal system, 41 

Decocta, 35 

Decoction of azedarach, 466 

broom, 328 

cetraria, 449 

blackberry, 135 

cotton-root bark, 249 



INDEX. 



509 



Decoction of elder, 297 

erigeron, 325 

geranium, 183 

haematoxylon, 181 

Iceland moss, 449 

Irish moss, 449 

liriodendron, 131 

logwood, 181 

pipsissewa, 345 

pomegranate, 184, 468 

rubus, 185 

sarsaparilla, compound, 314 

white oak, 182 
Decoctions, 34 
Decoctum cetrariae, 449 

sarsaparillae compositum, 314 
Deer-berry, 212 
Delphinia, 227 
Delphinine, 227 
Delphinium staphisagria, 227 
Demulcents, 53, 438 
Denarcotised opium, 62 
Deodorized tincture of opium, 64 
Depresso-motors, 241, 254 
Deshler's salve, 337 
Dextrin, 450 
Diachylon, 190 
Dialysed iron, 159 
Dialysis, 35 
Diaphoretics, 53, 309 

alterative, 312 

nauseating, 309 

refrigerant, 310 

stimulating, 310 
Diastase, 450 
Dieulafoy's aspirator, 20 
Diffusible stimulants, 193 
Digestion, 34 

influence 
Digestive ferments, 148 
Digitalin, 250 
Digitalis, 249, 320 

purpurea, 249 
Diluents, 439 
Diluted acetic acid, 238 

alcohol, 197 

hydrochloric acid, 173 

hydrocyanic acid, 92 

muriatic acid, 173 

nitric acid, 172 

nitro-muriatic acid, 174 

phosphoric acid, 385 

solution of subacetate of lead, 189 

silver nitrate, 166, 432 

sulphuric acid, 170 
Diospyros, 184 

Virginiana, 185 
Diplolepis gallag tinctoriae, 177 
Disease, influence of, on medicinal 



Disinfecting fluid, Burnett's, 163 
Condy's, 403 
Ledoyen's, 190 

solution, Labarraque's, 405 
Dispensatory, 28 
Displacement, 34 
Distilled oils, 203 

water, 439 
Diuretics, 53, 318 

special, 320 
Dogwood, 145 

round-leaved, 146 

swamp, 146 
Dogsbane, 326 
Dolomite, 282 
Donovan's solution, 385 
Dorema ammoniacum, 112, 263 
Doses, modifying effects of, 31 

of medicines, 43 
Dover's powder, 63, 269, 310 
Dracontium, 114 

foetidum, 114 
Drachm, 40 

Drastic cathartics, 279, 349 
Drastics, 272 
Draught, black, 294 

effervescing, 236 

Scudamore's, 323 
Dried alum, 192 

sodium carbonate, 397 
Drops,, 42 

Dryobalanops camphora, 97 
Duboisia, 83 

myopceoides, 83 
Dulcamara, 91 
Dupuytren's pomatum, 430 
Dutch camphor, 97 

East India kino, 179 
Ebenaceae, 185 
Ecballium elaterium, 305 
Eccritics, 53, 265 
Effects of medicines, 30 
Effervescing draught, 236 
Egyptian opium, 55 
Elaterin, 305 
Elaterinum, 305 
Elaterium, 305 
Elder, 296 
Electricitas, 23, 25 
Electricity, 25 

faradic, 26 

frictional, 26 

galvanic, 26 

induced, 26 

magnetic, 26 

static, 26 

voltao-magnetic, 26 
Electuaries, 33 
Elettaria cardamomum, 211 



510 



INDEX. 



aurantii, 214 

of orange, 214 

of vitriol, 170 

simple, 214 
Ellis' magnesia, 281 
Elm, 444 
Elutriation, 32 
Emetia, 267 
Emetics, 53, 265, 309 

mineral, 272 

vegetable, 268 
Emetine, 267 
Emmenagogues, 53, 349 
Emodin, 289, 295 
Emollients, 439 
Emplastra, 39 
Emplastrum aconiti, 88 

ammoniaci, 112 

cum hydrargyro, 112, 356, 
358 

arnicae, 225 

asafoetidae, 111 

belladonnae, 77 

capsici, 205, 423 

ferri, 152 

galbani compositum, 112 

hydrargyri, 356, 358 

ichthyocollae, 451 

opii, 63 

picis Burgundicae, 424 
Canadensis, 425 
cum cantharidae, 424 

plumbi, 190 

resinae, 337 

saponis, 190 
Emulsin, 96 
Emulsions, 34 
Endermic application of medicines, 

46 
Enepidermic application of medi- 
cines, 45 
Enemata, 50, 308 

cathartic, 308 

forced, 308 

laxative, 308 
Epidermic application of medicines, 

46 
Epispastics, 419, 425 
Epsom salt, 282 
Ergot, 244 

of rye, 244 

corn, 248 
Ergota, 244 
Ergotin, 248 
Ergotinine, 246 
Ericaceae, 212, 342, 344 
Ericolin, 213, 345 
Erigeron, .324- 



Erigeron heterophyllum, 324 

Philadelphicum, 324 
Errhines, 47 
Erucic acid, 420 
Erythoretin, 289 
Erythro-centaurin, 125 
Erythroxylaceae, 116 
Erythroxylon, 116 

coca, 116 
Eschar, 431 
Escharotics, 419, 431 
Eserina, 257, 259 
Eserine, 257, 259 

salicylate, 259 
Essence of lemon, 239 

peppermint, 214 

spearmint, 214 
Essential oils, 203 
Ethal alcohol, 452 
Ether, 100 

stronger, 100 
Ethereal anaesthetics, 99 

extract of cantharides, 429 

oil, 118 

refrigerants, 319 

tinctures, 35 
Ethyl hydrate, 193 
Eucalyptol, 144, 145 
Eucalyptus, 144 

globulus, 144 

resinifera, 179 
Eugenia caryophyllata, 207 

pimenta, 208 
Eugenic acid, 208 
Eugenin, 208 
Eugenol, 208 
Euonic acid, 302 
Euonymin, 302 
Euonymus, 302 

atropurpureus, 302 
Eupatorin, 129 
Eupatorium, 129 

aromaticum, 129 

perfoliatum, 129 

teucrifolium, 129 ' 
Euphorbiaceae, 132, 277, 306, 317, 468 
European opium, 55 

rhubarb, 288 
Excito-motors, 240 
Exogonium purga, 297 
Expectorants, 330 
Expressed oil of almond, 277 
Extract of aconite, 88, 217 

fluid, 217 

American hellebore, fluid, 221 
hemp, 88 

arnica, 203 

belladonna, 77 
alcoholic, 77 



INDEX. 



511 



Extract of bittersweet, 92 

fluid, 92 
blackberry, fluid, 185 
brayera, fluid, 468 
broom, fluid, 328 
buchu, fluid, 342 
butternut, 290 
calabar bean, 259 
Canada fleabane, fluid, 324 
cascara sagrada, fluid, 296 
chimaphila, fluid, 345 
cimicifuga, fluid, 254 
cinchona, 141 

fluid, 141 
colcbicum, acetic, of root, 324 

fluid, of root, 324 
of seed, 324 
colocynth, 304 

compound, 304 
columbo, fluid, 126 
conium, 257 

fluid, 257 
couch grass, fluid, 327 
cotton-root bark, fluid, 249 
cubeb, fluid, 340 
dandelion, 327 

fluid, 327 
digitalis, 252 

fluid, 252 
dogwood, fluid, 146 
ergot, fluid, 248 
erigeron, Canada, fluid, 324 
euonymus, 302 
frangula, fluid, 296 
gentian, 123 

fluid, 123 
geranium, fluid, 183 
ginger, fluid, 210 
Goulard's, 189 
hamamelis, fluid, 184 
hydrastis, fluid, 329 
hyoscyamus, 80 

alcoholic, 80 

fluid, 80 
Indian hemp, 88 
ipecacuanha, fluid, 259 
iris, 301 

fluid, 301 
jaborandi, fluid, 312 
jalap, 276 
juglans, 290 
koosso, fluid, 468 
krameria, 180 

fluid, 180 
leptandra, 295 

fluid, 295 
liquorice root, 448 

fluid, 449 

refined, 449 
logwood, 181 



Extract of lupulin, fluid, 90 
matico, fluid, 341 
May-apple, 300 

fluid, 300 
mezereon, 316 

fluid, 316 
nux vomica, 244 
opium, 62 
pareira, fluid, 342 
pepo, fluid, 469 
pilocarpus, fluid, 312 
pipsissewa, fluid, 345 
podophyllum, 300 

fluid, 300 
pumpkin-seed, fluid, 469 
quassia, 121 
rhatany, 180 

fluid, 180 
rhubarb, 289 

fluid, 289 
sarsaparilla, fluid, 314 

fluid, compound, 314 
savine, fluid, 350 
senega, fluid, 332 
senna, fluid, 294 
serpentaria, fluid, 12 , 8 
spigelia, fluid, 464 
squill, fluid, 321 
stillingia, fluid, 317 
stramonium leaves, 79 

seed, 79 
taraxacum, 327 

fluid, 327 
triticum, fluid, 327 
uva ursi, fluid, 327 
valerian, 113 

fluid, 113 
wahoo, 302 
wild cherry, fluid, 147 
yellow jasmine, fluid, 224 
Extracta, 37 

fluida, 37 
Extracts, 37 
Extractum aconiti, 88, 217 

fluidum, 217 
arnica? radicis, 225 

fluidum, 225 
aurantii amari fluidum, 214 
belladonnas, 77 

alcoholicum, 77 

fluidum, 77 
brayerae fluidum, 468 
buchu fluidum, 342 
calami fluidum, 212 
calumbaa fluidum, 126 
cannabis indicee, 88 

fluidum, 88 
capsici fluidum, 205 
castanese fluidum, 185 
chimaphilas fluidum, 345 



512 



INDEX. 



Extractum cimicifugae fluidum, 254 
cinchonae, 141 

fluidum, 141 
colchici, 324 

radicis fluidum, 324 

seminis fluidu 
colocynthidis, 304 

compositum, 304 
conii alcoholicum, 257 

fluidum, 257 
cornus fluidum, 146 
cubebae fluidum, 340 
digitalis, 252 

fluidum, 252 
dulcamarae fluidum, 92 
ergotae, 248 

fluidum, 248 
erythroxyli fluidum, 116 
eucalypti fluidum, 145 
euonymi, 302 
eupatorii fluidum, 130 
frangulae fluidum, 296 
gelsemii fluidum, 224 
gentianae, 123 

fluidum, 123 
geranii fluidum, 183 
glycyrrhizae, 448 

fluidum, 447 

purum, 448 
gossypii radicis fluidum, 249 
grindeliae fluidum, 263 
guaranae fluidum, 116 
haematoxyli, 181 
hamamelidis fluidum, 184 
hydrastis fluidum, 329 
hyoscyami alcoholicum, 80 

fluidum, 80 
ipecacuanb.ee fluidum, 269 
iridis, 301 

fluidum, 301 
juglandis, 290 
krameriae, 180, 181 

fluidum, 180 
leptandrae, 295 

fluidum, 295 
lupulini fluidum, 90 
malti, 198 

matico fluidum, 341 
mezerei, 316 

fluidum, 316 
nucis vomicae, 244 

fluidum, 244 
opii, 62 

pareiras fluidum, 342 
physostigmatis, 259 
pilocarpi fluidum, 312 
podophylli, 300 

fluidum, 300 
pruni Virginianae fluidum, 147 
quassiae, 121 



Extractum quassias fluidum, 121 
rhei, 289 

fluidum, 289 
rubi fluidum, 185 
sabinae fluidum, 350 
sanguinariae fluidum, 271 
sarsaparillae fluidum, 314 

compositum fluidum, 314 
scillae fluidum, 321 
Scutellariae fluidum, 114 
senegae fluidum, 332 
sennae fluidum, 294 
serpentariae fluidum, 128 
spigeliae fluidum, 464 
stillingiae fluidum, 317 
stramonii, 79 

fluidum, 79 
taraxaci, 327 

fluidum, 327 
tritici fluidum, 327 
uva ursi fluidum, 343 
Valerianae fluidum, 113 
veratri viridis fluidum, 221 
viburni fluidum, 262 
zingiberis fluidum, 210 
Eye-washes, 47 

False angustura bark, 132, 240 
Faradic electricity, 26 
Faradization, 26 

Fasting, influence on medicinal ef- 
fect, 45 
Fat manna, 275 
Felicic acid, 467 
Fennel, 216 

oil, 216 

water, 216 
Fern, male, 467 
Ferri carbonas saccharatus, 152 

carbonatis, massa, 152 

chloridi, liquor, 155 
tinctura, 155 

chloridum, 154 

citras, 157 

citratis, liquor, 158 

et ammonii acetatis, mistura, 155 

et ammonii citras, 158 

et ammonii sulphas, 159 

et ammonii tartras, 159 

et potassii tartras, 156 

et quiniae citras, 158 

et strychniae citras, 159 

hypophosphis, 157, 387 

iodidi, syrupus, 155 

iodidum, saccharatum, 155, 371 

lactas, 158 

nitratis, liquor, 157 

oxalas, 157 

oxidum hydratum, 152, 382 
cum magnesia, 152, 382 



INDEX. 



513 



Ferri phosphas, 156 
prseparata, 149 
pyrophosphas, 156 
subsulphatis, liquor, 154 
sulphas, 153 

exsiccatus, 153 
praecipitatus, 153 
tersulphatis, liquor, 154 
valerianas, 159 
Ferric acetate, 158 

solution of, 158 
tincture of, 158 
chloride, 154 

solution of, 155 
tincture of, 155 
citrate, 157 

solution of, 158 
hydrate, 152 
hypophosphite, 157, 387 
nitrate, solution of, 157 
phosphate, 156 
pyrophosphate, 156 
sulphate, solution of basic, 154 

normal, 154 
valerianate, 159 
Ferrous bromide, syrup of, 157 
carbonate, saccharated, 152 
iodide, pills of, 156 
saccharated, 155 
syrup of, 155 
lactate, 158 
oxalate, 157 
sulphate, 153 
dried, 153 
precipitated, 153 
Ferruginea, 149 
Ferrum, 149 

dialysatum, 159 
reductum, 151 
Ferula galbaniflua, 111 

sumbul, 263 
Ferulaic acid, 110 
Figs, 274 
Filices, 467 
Filix mas, 467 
Fir, balsam of, 334 

silver, 423 
Flake manna, 275 
Flax, common, 443 
Flaxseed, 443 
meal, 443 
oil, 279, 443 
Flea-bane, Canada, 324 
Philadelphia, 324 
various-leaved, 344 
Flexible collodion, 457 
Flour of mustard, 420 
Flowers of orange, 214 

of sulphur, 279 
Fluid extract of aconite, 217 
33 



Fluid extract of belladonna, 77 
bitter-orange peel, 214 
brayera, 468 
broom, 328 
buchu, 342 
calamus, 212 
calumba, 126 
Canada fleabane, 324 
capsicum, 205 
cascara sagrada, 296 
castanea, 185 
chestnut leaves, 185 
chimaphila, 345 
cimicifuga, 254 
cinchona, 141 
coca, 116 
colchicum root, 324 

seed, 324 
conium, 257 
cornus, 146 
cotton-root, 249 
couchgrass, 327 
cubeb, 340 
dandelion, 327 
digitalis, 252 
dogwood, 146 
dulcamara, 92 
ergot r 248 
erigeron, 324 
erythroxylon, 116 
eucalyptus, 145 
eupatorium, 130 
frangula, 296 
gelsemium, 224 
gentian, 123 
geranium, 183 
ginger, 210 
glycyrrhiza, 447 
gossypium, 249 
grindelia, 263 
hamamelis, 184 
heartsease, 276 
hydrastis, 329 
hyoscyamus, 80 
ipecac, 269 
iris, 301 
jaborandi, 312 
koosso, 468 
krameria, 180 
leptandra, 295 
liquorice root, 447 
lupulin, 90 
matico, 341 
mezereon, 316 
nux vomica, 244 
pansy, 276 
pareira, 342 
pepo, 469 
Phytolacca, 227 
pilocarpus, 312 



514 



INDEX. 



Fluid extract of podophyllum, 300 

prunus virginiana, 147 

pumpkin-seed, 469 

quassia, 121 

rhubarb, 289 

rubus, 185 

sanguinaria, 271 

sarsaparilla, 314 
compound, 314 

savine, 350 

Scutellaria, 114 

senega, 332 

senna, 294 

serpentaria, 128 

skullcap, 114 

spigelia, 464 

squill, 321 

staphisagria, 228 

stillingia, 317 

taraxacum, 327 

triticum, 327 

uva ursi, 343 . 

valerian, 1 13 

veratrum viride, 221 

viburnum, 262 

wild cherry, 147 
Fluid extracts, 39 
Fluidrachm, 42 
Fluidounce, 42 
Fly, potato, 430 

Spanish, 426 
Foeniculum, 216 

vulgare, 216 
Fonticuli, 19 
Forms in which medicines are used, 

31 
Formyl, terchloride of, 103 

teriodide of, 374 
Fowler's solution, 383 
Foxglove, 383 
Frangula, 295 
Frangulin, 295 
Frasera, 124 

Walteri, 124 
Fraxinus ornus, 275 

rotundifolia, 275 
Friction electricity, 26 
Frictions, 19 
Frigus, 24 
Fumigation, 40 
Fungi, 245, 248 
Fused silver nitrate, 432 

diluted, 432 
Fusel oil. 107, 193 

Gaduin, 376 
Gadus morrhua, 375 
Galbanum, 111, 348 
Galipea officinalis, 131 
Gall-oak, 177 



Galla, 177 

Gallic acid, 176, 177 

Gallon, 42 

Galls, 177 

black, 177 

white, 177 
Galvanic electricity, 26 
Galvano-cautery, 27 
Gamboge, 304 

cake, 304 

lump, 304 

pipe, 304 
Garcinia Hamburii, 304 
Gargarismata, 47 
Gargles, 47 
Garlic, 332, 425 
Gas, nitrous-oxide, 108 

laughing, 108 
Gases, 40 
Gaultheria, 212 

procumbens, 212 
Gelatin, 451 
Gelsemia, 224 
Gelsemina, 224 
Gelseminic acid, 244 
Gelsemium, 223 

sempervirens, 233 
General blood letting, 17 
Gentian, 123 

yellow, 123 
Gentiana, 123 

lutea, 123 
Gentianaceae, 123, 124, 126 
Gentianin, 123 
Gentiopicrin, 123, 124 
Gentisin, 123 
Gentisic acid, 123, 124 
Geraniacese, 182 
Geranium, 182 

maculatum, 182 
German chamomile, 129 
Gin, 198 
Ginger, 210, 425 

black, 210 

Jamacia, 210 

white, 210 
Glauber's salt, 283 
Glyceric alcohol, 454 
Glyceril hydrate, 454 
Glycerin, 452, 454 
Glycerinum, 454 
Glycerita, 38, 454 
Glycerite of borate of sodium, 417 

carbolic acid, 409 

gallic acid, 177 

sodium borate, 417 

starch, 451, 455 

tannic acid, 176 

yolk of eggs, 455 
Glycerites, 38, 454 



INDEX. 



515 



Glyceritum amyli, 451, 455 

vitelli, 455 
Glycil hydrate, 454 
Glyconin, 455 
Glycyrrhiza, 447 

echinata, 447 

glabra, 447 

glandulifera, 447 
Glycyrrhizin, 447 

ammoniated, 448 
Glycyrrhizinum ammoniatura, 448 
Goa-powder, 289, 437 
Gold and sodium chloride, 368 
Golden sulphur of antimony, 231 
Goldthread, 122 

Gondret's vesicating ointment, 430 
Gossypii radicis cortex, 248 
Gossypium, 249 

herbaceum, 248 
Goulard's create, 189 

extract, 189 
Grains, 40 

Graminaceae, 244, 248, 327, 450, 458 
Granatacese, 184 
Granati fructus cortex, 184 
Granatum, 468 
Granulation, 31 
Granville's lotion, 430 
Grape, seaside, 179 

sugar, 458, 459 
Gray ipecacuanha, 266 

powder, 356, 359 
Greenheart tree, 147 
Green iodide of mercury, 364 

soap, 437 

vitriol, 153 
Grindelia, 262 

robusta, 262 
Ground flaxseed, 444 
Ground-holly, 344 
Guaiac, 314, 349 

wood, 314 

beta-resin, 315 
Guaiaci lignum, 314 

resina, 314 
Guaiacic acid, 315 
Guaiaconic acid, 315 
Guaiacum, 314, 349 

officinale, 314 

sanctum, 314 

wood, 314 
Guaiaretic acid, 315 
Guarana, 116 

Guatemala sarsaparilla, 313 
Gum, 441 

ammoniac, 112 

arabic, 440 

Barbary, 440 

India, 440 

pectoral, 442 



Gum, Senegal, 441 

Turkey, 440 
Gummic acid, 442 
Gun-cotton, 456 
Gunjah, 88 
Guttiferae, 304 
Gutta-percha, solution, 457 

Habit, influence of, on medicinal ef- 
fects, 45 
Haematics, 53, 351 
Hgematin, 181 
Haematinics, 53, 351 
Hsematoxylin, 181 
Haematoxylon, 180 

campechianum, 180 
Hamamelaceae, 183, 347 
Hamamelis, 183 

virginica, 183 
Haschisch, 88 
Haw, black, 261 
Heartsease, 276 
Heat, 28, 437 
Heavy magnesia, 281 
Hedeoma, 215 

pulegoides, 215 
Hellebore, American, 218 

swamp, 218 
Hemlock, 254 

gum, 424 

spruce, 424 
• pitch plaster, 425 
Hemp, American, 88 

Indian, 88, 325 
Henbane, 79 
Henry's magnesia, 281 
Hepatic aloes, 291 
Herapathite, 137 
Herapath's test, 137 
Hesperidin, 213 
Hircin, 452 
Hiera picra, 133 
Hirudo decora, 18 

medicinalis, 18 
Hive-syrup. 321 
Hoffman's anodyne, 119 
Hog, 451 
Homotropine, 77 
Honduras sarsaparilla, 312 
Honey, 459 

bee, 452, 459 

clarified, 459 

of rose, 184 

of bora 
Honeys, 37 

Hope's camphor mixture, 172 
Hops, 89 
Horehound, 215 
Hot iron, 24 
Howard's calomel, 360 



516 



INDEX. 



Huanuco barks, 135 
Humulus, 89 

lupulus, 89 
Husband's magnesia, 281 
Huxham's tincture, 141 
Hydragogues, 273 

Hydrargj'ri chloridum corrosivura, 
*357, 362, 436 

mite, 307, 357, 360, 468 

cyanidum, 357, 365 

iodidum rubrum, 357, 365, 371 
viride, 357, 364, 371 

oxidum flavum, 356, 359 
rubrum, 357, 359 

nitratis unguentum, 357, 367 
liquor, 357, 367, 436 

prseparata, 352 

subsulphas flavus, 272, 357, 376 

sulphidum rubrum, 357, 366 
Hydrargyrum ammoniatum, 357, 365 

cum creta, 356, 359 
Hydrastia, 329 
Hydrastis, 329 

canadensis, 329 
Hydrate of chloral, 65 
Hydrated oxide of iron, 152, 382 

with magnesia, 152, 382 
Hydro-alcoholic extract of canthar- 

'ides, 429 
Hydrochlorate of apomorphia, 171 

of morphia, 64 

of pilocarpine, 312 

of quinine, 143 
Hydrochloric acid, 172 

diluted, 173 
Hydrocyanic acid, 92, 96, 147 

diluted, 92 
Hydrobromate of quinine, 143 
Hygienic remedies, 17 
Hyoscyami folia, 79 

semen, 79 
Hyoscyamia, 79, 80 
Hyoscyamus, 79 

leaves, 79 

niger, 79 

seed, 79 
Hypnotics, 54 

Hypodermic application of medi- 
cines, 46 
Hypophosphite of calcium, 386 

iron, 157, 387 

potassium, 387 

sodium, 387 
Hypophosphites, syrup of, 387 

with iron, syrup of, 387 
Hyposulphite of sodium, 171 

Iceland moss, 448 
Ichthyocolla, 451 
Tctodes foetidus, 114 



Idiosyncrasy, influence of, on medi- 
cinal effects, 44 
Igasura, 241 
Igasuric acid, 241 
Igasurine, 241 
Ignatia, 244 
Ilex Paraguaiensis, 116 
Illicium, 216 

anisatum, 216 
Imagination, influence of, 45 
Imponderable remedies, 17, 23 
India gum, 441 

opium, 55 

senna, 293 
Indian corn, 248 

hemp, 88, 325 

poke, 218 

tobacco, 83 
Induced electricity, 26 
Infusia, 34 
Infusion of absinthium, 130 

apocynum, 326 

angustura, 132 

bloodroot, 271 

brayera, 468 

calamus, 212 

cascarilla, 132 

catechu, compound, 178 

chamomile, 129 

cinchona (red and yellow), 141 

columbo, 126 

coptis, 123 

dandelion, 327 

digitalis, 252 

elder, 297 

erigeron, 325 

eupatorium, 130 

frasera, 124 

heartsease, 276 

hops, 90 

Indian hemp, 326 

juniper, 328 

koosso, 468 

krameria, 180 

liriodendron, 131 

magnolia, 130 

matico, 341 

pansy, 276 

pareira, 342 

prunus Virginiana, 147 

quillaia, 332 

sabbatia, 125 

sanguinaria, 271 

Scutellaria, 114 

senna, 294 

compound, 294 

serpentaria, 128 

tamarind, 275 

taraxacum, 327 

thoroughwort, 130 



INDEX. 



517 



Infusion of tobacco, 82 

wild cherry, 147 

wormwood, 130 

yarrow, 133 
Infusions, 34 
Infusum brayerae, 468 

cinchonae, 141 

digitalis, 252 

pruni Virginianae, 147 

sennas compositum, 294 
Inhalation, 40 
Ingluvin, 149 
Inosite, 250 
Injections, 50, 308 
Intravenous injections, 51 
Iodide of ammonium, 373 

arsenic, 384 

and mercury, 385 

iron, 155, 371 

lead, 189,371 

mercury, 357, 364, 365, 371 

potassium, 372 

sodium, 374 

sulphur, 372 

zinc, 164, 372 
Iodine, 368, 405 
Iodized collodion, 457 
Iodoform, 374 
Iodoformum, 374 
Iodum, 368, 405 

loduretted potassium iodide, 372 
Ipecac, 266,310 
Ipecacuanha, 266, 310 
Ipecacuanhic acid, 267 
Ipomoea jalapa, 297 

turpethum, 366 
Iridaceae, 301, 460 
Iridin, 301 
Iris, 301 

versicolor, 301 
Irish moss, 449 
Iron, 149 

" and ammonium citrate, 158 
acetate, mixture of, 155 
sulphate, 159 
tartrate, 159 

bromide, syrup of, 157 

carbonate, mass of, 152 
saccharated, 152 

potassium tartrate, 156 

quinine citrate, 158 
solution of, 158 

strychnine citrate, 159 

bitter wine of, 158 

chloride, 154 

citrate, 157 

compound pills of, 153 

dialyzed, 159 

dried, sulphate of, 152 

hydrated, oxide of, 152 



Iron hypophosphite, 157 
iodide, pills of, 156 

saccharated, 155 

syrup, 156 
lactate, 158 

mixture, compound, 153 
oxalate, 157 
phosphate, 156 

syrup of, 156 
pills of aloes and, 159, 292 
pills of iodide of, 156 
plaster, 152 

precipitated sulphate of, 153 
preparations of, 149 
pyrophosphate, 156 
quinine and strychnine phos- 
phates, syrup of, 159 
Quevenne's, 151 
reduced, 151 
saccharated carbonate, 152 

iodide, 155 
solution of acetate of, 158 

chloride of, 155 

citrate of, 157 

nitrate of, 157 

subsulphate of, 154 

tersulphate of, 154 
sulphate, 153 
syrup of bromide of, 157 

iodide of, 156 
tincture of acetate, 158 

chloride, 155 
troches, 152 
valerianate, 159 
wine of citrate of, 159 
with magnesia, hydrated oxide 
of, 152 
Irritants, 53, 192, 419 
Isinglass, 451 
Issues, 19 

Jaborandi, 310 
Jalap, 297 
Jalapa, 297 
Jamaica ginger, 210 

kino, 179 

sarsaparilla, 312 
James' powder, 232 
Jamestown weed, 77 
Japan camphor, 97 
Jasmine, Carolina, 223 

yellow, 223 
Jateorrhiza calumba, 125 

palmata, 125 
Jerusalem oak, 464 % 
Jervia, 218 
Jesuit's powder, 139 
Jewell's calomel, 360 
Juglandaceas, 290 
Juglandic acid, 290 



518 



INDEX. 



Juglans, 290 

cinerea, 290 
Juglone, 290 
Juice of garlic, 333 
Juices, 37 
Jujube paste, 442 
Juniper, 328 
Juniperus, 328 

communis, 328 

sabina, 349 

Virginiana, 349 

Kamala, 468 
Kelp, 368, 396 
Kinic acid 
Kino, 179 

red, 179 

tannic acid, 279 
Kinoin, 179 
Kinovic acid, 136 
Kosin, 468 
Koosso, 468 
Kordofan gum, 44 i 
Krameria, 180 

triandra, 180 
Kramero-tannic acid, 180 

Labarraque's liquid, 405 
Labiatae, 114, 214 
Lac asafcetidae, 111 

sulphuris, 280 
Lactate of iron, 158 
Lactic acid, 459 

Lacto-pbospbate of calcium, 386 
Lactuca saliva, 72 
Lactucarium, 72 

English, 72 

German, 73 
Laetucin, 73 
Ladies' slipper, 114 
Lady Webster pill, 292 
Lantbopia, 56 
Lard, 451 

benzoinated, 452 

oil, 452 
Lartigue's pills, 323 
Laudamia, 56 
Laudanum, 63 
Laughing-gas, 108 
Lauraceae, 96, 205, 317 
Laurostearic ether, 452 
Lauracese, 147 
Lavandula, 214 

vera, 214 
Lavements, 50^ 
Lavender, 214' 
Laxatives, 273, 274 
Lead acetate, 186 

arthralgy, 186 

carbonate, 190 



Lead cerate of subacetate, 189 

colic, 186 

iodide, 189, 371 

ointment of, 189 

liniment of subacetate, 189 

nitrate, 189 

ointment of, carbonate, 190 
iodide, 190 

oxide, 190 

plaster, 190 

paralysis, 187 

preparations of, 185 

solution of subacetate, 189 
diluted, 190 

sugar of, 188 

subacetate, cerate of, 189 
liniment of, 189 
solution of, 189 
diluted, 190 

sulpho-carbolate, 409 

water, 189 

white, 190 
Ledoyen's disinfecting fluid, 190 
Leeches, 18, 19 

Leguminosae, 178, 179, 180, 257, 275, 
277, 293, 328, 337, 347, 348, 437, 
440, 442, 447, 461 
Lemon-juice, 239 

essence, 239 

oil, 239 

peel, 239 

rind, 239 

spirit, 239 

syrup, 239 
Lenitives, 438 
Leopard's-bane, 225 
Leptandra, 295 

Virginica, 295 
Leptandrin, 295 
Lethal alcohol, 452 
Lettuce-opium, 72 
Levant wormseed, 465 
Licebane, 227 
Lichenes, 448 
Lichenin, 449 
Light, 23 

magnesia, 281 
Lignum vitae, 314 
Lime, chloride, 388, 404 

chlorinated, 404 

liniment, 401 

solution, 400 
Lime-juice, 239 

sulphurated, 171 

syrup of, 239 

water, 400 
Liliaceae, 291, 320, 332 
Lima bark, 134 
Limonis cortex, 239 

succus, 239 



INDEX. 



519 



Linimenta, 38 
Linaceae, 443 
Liniment of aconite, 88 

of ammonia, 423 

of calcium, 401 

of camphor, 98 

of cantharides, 429 

of chloroform, 106 

of lead subacetate, 189 

of mustard, compound, 422 

of turpentine, 336 

soap, 99 
Liniments, 38 
Linimentum aconiti, 88 

ammonias, 200, 423 

calcis, 401, 444 

camphorae, 98 

cantharidis, 429 

chloroformi, 106 

plumbi subacetatis, 189 

saponis, 99 

sinapis compositum, 422 

terebinthinae, 336 
Linseed oil, 279, 443 
Linum, 443 

usitatissimum, 443 
Liquidambar orientale. 347 
Liquids, 31, 32 
Liquor acidi arsenici, 384 

ammonii acetatis, 236 

arsenii et hydrargyri iodidi, 385 

calcis, 400 

ferri acetatis, 158 
chloridi, 155 
citratis, 157 
et quiniae citratis, 158 
nitratis, 157 
subsulphatis, 154 
tersulphatis, 154 

gutta-perchas, 457 

hydrargyri nitratis, 357, 367, 436 

iodi compositus, 371 

magnesii citratis, 283 

pepsini, 149 • 

plumbi subacetatis, 189 
dilutus, 189 

potassae, 394 

potassii arsenitis, 383 
citratis, 236 

sodas. 395 

chloratae, 405 

sodii arseniatis, 384 
silicatis, 458 

zinci chloridi, 163 
Liquores, 34 
Liquorice, 448 

powder, compound, 295 

root, 447 
Liriodendrin, 131 
Liriodendron, 131 



Liriodendron tulipifera, 131 
Litharge, 190 
Lithii benzoas, 399 

bromidum, 72 

carbonas, 398 

citras, 399 

praeparata, 398 

salicylas, 415 
Lithium benzoate, 399 

bromide, 72 

carbonate, 398 

citrate, 399 

preparations, 398 

salicylate, 415 
Lithontriptics, 393 
Liver of sulphur, 280 
Lobelia, 85, 272 

inflata, 85 
Lobeliacea?, 83 
Lobelic acid, 83 
Lobelina, 83 
Local bloodletting, 18 
Loganaceas, 223, 240, 462 
Logwood, 180 
London paste, 434 
Long leaved pine, 334 
Lotion, Granville's, 430 
Loxa bark, 134 
Lozenges, 33 
Lugol's solution, 371 
Lunar caustic, 166, 432 
Lupulin, 90 
Lupulinum, 90 
Lux, 23 
Lytta vesicatoria, 426 

Mace, 206 
Maceration, 34 
Macis, 206 
Madeira wine, 197 
Magistery of bismuth, 157 
Magnesia, 281, 399 

alba, 282 

calcined, 281 

Ellis', 281 

heavy, 281 

Henry's, 281 

Husband's, 281 

ponderosa, 281 
Magnesii carbonas, 282, 399 

citratis liquor, 283 

praeparata, 399 

sulphas, 282 

sulphis, 171 
Magnesite, 282 
Magnesium, carbonate, 282, 399 

citrate, solution of, 283 

preparations, 399 

sulphate, 282 

sulphite, 171 



520 



INDEX. 



Magnesium sulpho-carbolate, 409 
Magnetic electricity, 26 
Magnolia, 131 

acuminata, 131 

glauca, 131 

tripetala, 131 

umbrella, 131 
Magnoliaceae, 131, 216 
Magnolin, 131 
Magendie's solution, 64 
Maisch's table, 43 
Male fern, 467 

Mallotus philippinensis, 468 
Malt, extract of, 198 

liquors, 198 
Malvaceae, 248, 445 
Mandrake', 299 
Mangani sulphas, 284 
Manganese sulphate, 284 
Manganesii sulphas, 284 
Manna, 275 

cannulata, 275 

fat, 275 

in flakes, 275 

in sorts, 275 
Mannite, 276 
Margaric acid, 454 
Marigold, 316 
Marjoram, wild, 215 
Marrubium, 215 

vulgare, 215 
Marshmallow, 445 
Marsh's test for arsenic, 379 

antimony, 228 
Martial preparations, 149 
Maruta cotula, 129 
Mass, blue, 308, 357 

of copaiba, 338 

of mercury, 308, 356, 357 
Massa copaibse, 338 

ferri carbonatis, 152 

hydrargyri, 308, 356, 357 
Mate, 116 

Materia Medica, definition of, 17, 28 
Maticin, 341 
Matico, 341 
Matricaria, 129 

chamomilla, 129 
Mattison's pancreatin, 149 
May-apple, 299 
Mayweed, 129 
Meadow-saffron, 322 

sweet, 411 
Measures and weights, 40 

apothecaries', 42 

approximate, 42 

wine, 42 
Mecca senna, 293 
Mechanical remedies, 17 
Meconic acid, 56, 58 



Meconidia, 56 
Meconin, 56 
Medicated waters, 34 
Medicines, definition of, 27 
Mel, 459 

despumatum, 459 

rosae, 184 
Melaleuca cajuputi, 208 
Melanthaceae, 218, 221, 222 
Melia azedarach, 466 
Meliacese, 466 
Mellita, 37 
Melted butter, 279 
Menispermaceae, 125, 259, 316, 341 
Menispermia, 259 
Menispermum, 316 

canadense, 316 
Mentha piperita, 214 

viridis, 214 
Menthal, 214 
Mercurial cathartics, 273, 307 

fever, 354 

mass, 356, 357 

ointment, 356 

plaster, 354, 358 

oleate, 360 
Mercurials, 349, 352 
Mercuric chloride, 357, 362, 436 

cyanide, 357, 365 

iodide, 365, 371 

nitrate, solution of, 357, 367, 
436 

oxide, red, 356, 359 
yellow, 356, 359 

subsulphate, 160, 357, 366 

sulphide, 357, 366 
Mercurous chloride, 307, 357, 360, 
468 

iodide, 364, 371 
Mercury, ammoniated, 357, 365 

corrosive chloride of, 357, 362, 
436 

cyanide, 357, 365 

green iodide, 357, 364, 371 

mass of, 308 

metallic, 352, 356 

mild chloride of, 307, 357, 360, 
468 

nitrate of, 357 

ointment of, 358 

ammoniated, 365 
nitrate of, 367 
red oxide, 359 
yellow oxide, 359 

oleate of, 360 

preparations, 352 

red oxide of, 359 

iodide of, 357 ; 365, 371 

solution of nitrate of, 357, 367, 
436 



INDEX. 



521 



Mercury, sulphide of, 357, 366 

subsulphate of, 272, 357, 366 

with chalk, 307, 356, 359 

yellow oxide of, 359 
Methal alcohol, 452 
Methy-theobromine, 115 
Methyconia, 255 
Methyl salicylate, 411 
Methylene bichloride, 106 
Methylic ether, 107 
Metrical system of weights, 41 

compared with troy weights, 42 
Mezereon, 315 
Mezereum, 315 
Mild acrid cathartics, 274, 287 

chloride of mercury, 307, 357, 
360, 464 
Milfoil, 133 
Milk of asafetida, 111 

of sulphur, 280 

sugar of, 459 
Milkweed. 325 
Mimo-tannic acid, 175 
Mindererus, spirit of, 236 
Mineral acids, 168, 436 

astringents, 174, 185 

oils, 455 

tonics, 120, 149 
Minims, 42 
Mistura ammoniaci, 112 

amygdalae, 442 

asafoetidae, 111 

chloroformi, 105 

cretae, 401 

ferri composita, 153, 346 

et ammonii acetatis, 155 

glycyrrhizae composita, 448 

potassii citratis, 236 

rhei et sodas, 289 
Misturae, 33 
Mixture, ammonia, 112 

asafetida, 111 

chalk, 401 

chloroform, 106 

copaiba, Chapman's, 338 

Hope's camphor, 172 

neutral, 236 

of iron and ammonium acetate, 
155 

of iron, compound, 346 

of liquorice, compound, 448 

of potassium citrate, 236 

of rhubarb and soda, 289 
Mixtures, 33. 35 
Moccasin plant, 114 
Modus operandi of medicines, 29 
Molasses, 459 

Monobromated camphor, 99 
Monkshood, 85, 217 
Monsel's solution, 154 



Montpelier scammony, 303 
Moonseed, Canada, 316 
Morphia, 56 
Morphiae acetas, 64 

hydrochloras, 64 

sulphas, 64 
Morphina, 56 
Morphine, 56 

acetate, 64 

hydrochlorate, 64 

sulphate, 64 
Moschus, 117 

moschiferus, 117 
Motor-depressants, 254 

excitants, 241 
Moss, Iceland, 448 

Irish, 449 
Moxa, 24, 437 
Mucilage, 441 

of acacia, 442 

of gum arabic, 442 

of cydonium, 447 

of slippery elm, 445 

of sassafras pith, 445 

of tragacanth, 443 
Mucilago aeacise, 442 

cydonii, 447 

sassafras, 445 

tragacanthse, 443 

ulmi, 445 
Mucous membranes, application of 

medicines to, 47 
Muriate of ammonia, 388 
Muriatic acid, 172 

diluted, 173 
Musk, 117 

deer, 117 
Mustard, 272, 420 

black, 420 

flour, 420 

seed, 420 

white, 420 

paper, 422 

whey, 422 
Myrcia acris, 198 
Myristic ether, 452 
Myristica, 206 

fragrans, 206 
Myristicaceee, 206 
Myristicene, 207 
Myristicol, 207 
Myronate of potassium, 421 
Myrosyn, 421 
Myroxylon pereirae, 347 

toluifera, 348 
Myrrh, 345 
Myrrha, 345 
Myrrhic acid, 345 
iMyrtaceae, 144, 207, 208 



522 



INDEX. 



Napellina, 86 
Narceia, 56, 58 
Narcotics, 53, 54 
Narcotina, 56, 57 
Narthex asafcetida, 110 
Natron, 396 
Nauseants, 265 
Nauseating; diaphoretics, 309 
Nebulization of fluids, 48 
Nectandra, 147 

rodiei, 147 
Nectandria, 147 

Nervous sympathy, doctrine of, 29 
Neurotics, 53, 54 
Neutral mixture, 236 
Nicotia, 81 

Nicotiana tabacum, 81 
Nicotianin. 81 
Nightshade, black, 91 

deadly, 73 

woody, 91 
Nitrate of cerium, 168 

lead, 189 

mercury, 367, 436 

potassium, 232 

silver, 163 

fused, 164, 432 

sodium, 235 
Nitre, 232 

crude, 232 

cubic, 235 

papers, 235 

refined, 232 

sweet spirit of, 237 
Nitric acid, 171 

diluted, 172 
Nitrite of amyl, 107 
Nitro-hydrochloric acid, 173 

diluted, 174 
Nitro-muriatic acid, 173 

diluted, 174 
Nitrous oxide, 108 
Nitrous powders, 234 

papers, 235 
Norway spruce, 423 
Nucine, 290 
Nutgall, 177 
Nutmeg, 206 
Nux vomica, 240 

Oak, black, 181 

Jerusalem, 464 

white, 181 
Oatmeal, 274 

Occupation, influence of, 45 
CEnanthic acid, 197 
Officinal, definition of term, 28 
Oil cake, 444 

carron, 401 

castor, 277 



Oil, cod liver, 375 
croton, 306, 431 
ethereal, 118 
flaxseed, 279 
lard, 452 
linseed, 279, 443 
olive, 277 
phosphorated, 203 
sweet, 277 

of almond, expressed, 277 
amber, 118 
allspice, 208 
anise, 216 
benne, 446 
bitter almond, 96 
cajeput, 208 
camphor, 97, 99 
Canada erigeron, 324 
caraway, 216 
cardamom, 211 
caryophyllus, 208 
cedar, 340 
chenopodium, 465 
cinnamon, 206 
cloves, 208 
copaiba, 338, 339 
coriander, 216 
cubeb, 339, 340 
erigeron, 324 
eucalyptus, 145 
fennel, 216 
garlic, 333 
gaultheria, 213, 411 
ginger, 210 
hedeoma, 215 
illicium, 216 
juniper, 328 
lavender, 214 

flowers, 214 
lemon, 239 
mace, 207." 
marjoram, 215 
mustard, volatile, 420, 422 
neroli, 214 
nutmeg, 207 
orange flowers, 214 

peel, 214 
pennyroyal, 215 
peppermint, 214 
pimento, 208 
rosemary, 215 
rue, 350 

sandal-wood, 340 
santal, 340 
sassafras, 317 
savine, 350 
spearmint, 214 
tar, 336 

theobroma, 453 
thyme, 215, 418 



INDEX. 



523 



Oil, tobacco. 83 

turpentine, 208, 333, 334. 335. 

423. 463 
valerian. 113 
vitriol, 169 
wine. 118 
wormseed, 465 
yarrow. 133 
Oils,* distilled. 203 
essential, 203 
volatile. 203 
Ointment, 39. 452 

alkaline sulphur, 280 

basilicon, 337 

citrine. 357, 367 

Gondret's vesicating, 430 

sulphur. 280 

of ammoniated rnercurv, 357, 

366 
antimony, 431 
belladonna, 77 
calomel, 362 
carbolic acid. 409 
carbonate of lead, 190 
chrvsarobin, 438 
galls, 178 
iodide of lead, 189 

potassium, 373 

sulphur, 372 
iodine, 371 
iodoform, 375 
lead carbonate, 190 

iodide, 189 
mercuric iodide, 365 

nitrate, 357, 367 
mercury, 356, 358 
mezereon, 316 

nitrate of mercury, 357, 367 
nutgall, 178 
oxide of zinc, 162 
Phytolacca, 227 
potassium iodide, 373 
red iodide of mercury, 356, 365 

oxide of mercury, 356, 360 

precipitate, 360 
rose-water, 184 
staphisagria, 228 
stramonium, 77 
subacetate of copper, 161 
sulphur, 280 

iodide, 372 
sulphurated potassa, 280 
tannic acid, 176 
tar, 336 
tobaccoj 82 
veratria, 222 
veratrine, 222 

vellow oxide of mercurv, 357, 
360 

precipitate, 360 



Ointment, zinc oxide, 162 
Ointments, 39 
Olea Europcea, 277 

volatilia, 203 
Oleaceae, 275, 2*77 
Oleates, 453 
Oleic acid, 452, 454 
Olein, 452 
Oleate of mercury, 360 

veratria, 222 

veratrine, 222 
Oleatum hydrargyri, 360 

veratria;, 222 

veratrinae, 222 
Oleoresin of aspidium, 461 

black pepper, 205 

capsicum, 205, 423 

cubeb, 340 

ginger. 210 

lupulin, 90 

male fern, 467 
Oleoresina aspidii, 467 

capsici, 205, 423 

cubebee, 340 

lupulini, 90 

piperis, 205 

zingiberis, 210 
Oleoresinae, 38 
Oleoresins, 38 
Oleum adipis, 452 

Eethereutn, 118 

amygdala; amarse. 96 
expressum, 277 

anisi, 216 

aurantii corticis, 214 
floruui, 214 

cajuputi, 208 

cari, 216 

caryophylli, 208 

chenopodii, 465 

cinnamoni, 206 

copaiba;, 338, 339 

coriander, 216 

cubebae, 339, 340 

erigerontis, 324 

eucalypti, 145 

fceniculi, 216 

gaultherise, 213, 411 

gossypii seminis, 444 

hedeomse, 215 

juniperi, 328 

lavandulae, 214 
florum, 214 

limonis, 239 

lini, 443 

mentha? piperita;, 214 
viridis, 214 

morrhuae, 375 

myristicae, 207 

olivae, 277 



524 



INDEX. 



Oleum phosphoratum. 203 

picis liquidae, 336 

pimentae, 208 

ricini, 277 

rosmarini, 215 

rutae, 350 

sabinae, 350 

santali, 340 

sassafras, 317 

sesami, 446 

sinapis volatile, 420, 422 

suecini, 118 

terebinthinae, 208, 333, 334, 335, 
423, 468 

theobromse, 453 

thy mi, 215, 418 

tiglii, 306, 431 

Valerianae, 113 
Olive oil, 277 

tree, 277 
Ophelia chirata, 126 
Ophelic acid, 126 
Opiania, 56 
Opii pulvis, 62 
Opium, 54 

denarcotisatum, 62 

plaster, 63 
Orange flower, 214 
water, 214 

peel, 214 
Orchidaceae, 114, 216 
Ordeal bean. 258 
Origanum, 215 

vulgare, 215 
Ovis aries, 452 
Ounce, 40 
Oxalate of cerium, 168 

iron, 157 
Oxide of antimony, 228 

arsenic, 378 

ethyl, 100 

lead, 190 

silver, 166 

zinc, 162 

Painter's colic, 186 
Pale bark, 134 

rose, 184 
Palma Christi, 277 
Palmitin, 452 
Pancreatin, 149 
Pancreatinum, 149 
Pansy, 276 
Papaver, 54 

somniferum, 54 
Papaveraceae, 54, 269, 300 
Papaverina, 58 
Paper of cantharides, 430 

mustard, 422 

potassium nitrate,. 235 



Papers, 33 
Paraguay tea, 116 
Paraffine, 456 
Paramenispermia, 259 
Paramorphia, 56, 58 
Paregoric elixir, 63 
Pareira, 341 

brava, 341 
Paricia, 137 
Paricina, 137 
Parilline, 313 
Parsley, 329 
Partridge-berry, 212 
Parts to which medicines are ap- 
plied, 45 
Pasque-flower, 222 
Paste, London, 434 

Vienna, 434 
Paullinia, 116 

sorbilis, 116 
Paytia, 137 
Paytina, 137 
Peaches, 274 
Pearlash, 395 
Pearl white, 167 
Pectin, 250 
Pedaliaceas, 446 
Pennyroyal, 215 
Pepper, black, 205, 422 

cayenne, 204 

red, 204, 422 

white, 205 
Peppermint, 214 

water, 214 
Pepo, 469 
Pepsin, 148 
Pepsinum, 148 

saccharatum, 149 
Percolation, 34 
Percolator, 34 

Permanganate of potassium, 403 
Persian opium, 55 
Persimmon, 184 
Petrolatum, 455 
Petroleum oils, 456 

ointment, 455 
Petroselinum sativum, 329, 349 
Phaeoretin, 289 

Pharmaceutical modifications, 30 
Pharmacological remedies, 17, 27 
Pharmacology, 28 
Pharmacopoeia, 28 
Pharmacy, definition of, 28 
Phenic acid, 405 
Phenol, 410 

cymylic, 418 
Phenyl hydrate, 405 
Philadelphia fleabane, 324 
Phlebotomy, 17 
Phlox Carolina, 462 



I>~BEX. 



e of ammonium, 389 

calcium. 386 

iron. 156 

quinia. 143 
limn, 884 
Phosphide of zinc. 203 
Phosphorated cod-liver oil. I ": 

oil. 203 
Phosphoric acid, diluted. 385 
Phosphorus. 1 11 
Phytolacca. 226 

berries 226 

iecandra. 226 

root. 226 
Phytolaccacea?. 226 
Phytolacca bacca. 226 

radix. 226 

-rter macrocephalus. 
Physostigma. 257 

venenosum. 25? 

a jstigmina. 257. '-' '. 

: jstigminae salicylas. 259 
Physostigmine. 257 

E»licy] tc 
..-. \-.\-. 24S 
.:.. 2E 260 
Picrotoxinum. 11 I 
Pill of carbonate of iron, 152 

soap, compound. 62 
Pills. 31 

blue. 308. 356. " 

compound cathartic. \ Is 

compressed. 33 

Lady Webster, '.' - 
igue s gout. 323 

Plummer's. 232 
a 292 

of &'.:-; ::: 

and Bsafetj "... 292 
and iron. 159, 292 
and mast:: . - 
and myrrh. ... 54€ 
-ony. compound. 232 

. Ill 
i&rtic, compound. 305 
ferrous iodide. 156 

: .mum. compound. 112. 346 
iodide of iron. 156 
iron, compound. 153. 346 
phjr .: : . i£ 203 

m. 62 
rhubarb. 290 

compound. I E . 
Pilocarpina. 311 

: .\rpinae hydrochloras. 312 
urpine 31 1 

>chloi te, 312 
.\rpus. 310 
pencatifolius. 310 
Pilula ferri carbonais. 152 



Piluli saponis composita. 62 
Pilula?. 31 

aloes. 292 

et asafoetida?. . I ■'. 

et ferri. 159. .1 . 

et mastiehes. . , : . 

et myrrhee. 292. 346 

antimonii composita?. 232 

asafoetida?. Ill 

cathartica? compo=.: e £05 

ferri composita?. 153. 346 

iodidi. 156 
galbani compos:::e. 112. 346 
opii. 62 
phosphor:. . ; \ 
rhei. 290 

composita? . 
Pimenta. 208 
Pimento. 203 
Pimpinella anisum. 21€ 
Pinkroot. 462 
Pinitus succinifer, 118 
Pine, long-leaved, 334 
pitch. 334 
yellow, 334 
Pint.' 4 : 

Pinna australis. 208. 333 
palostris 
ta?da. 334 
Pipe gamboge, 304 
Piper. 205, 425 

nigrum, 205, 425 
Piperacea?. 205, 339, 341 
Piperina. 205 
Piperine. 205 
Pipsissewa. 344 
spotted, 345 
Pitch. 336 
pine. 334 

plaster with cantharides 424 
Pix Burguadica, 423 
Canadensis, 424 
liquida, 336 
Plasma. 451 
Plaster, adhesive. 337 
court. 451 
spice. 425 
of aconite, 88 
ammoniac, 112 
ammoniac with mercury. 112, 

356. 358 
arnica, 225 
asafetida, 111 
belladonna, 77 
Burgundy pitch. 424 
Canada pitch. 425 
capsicum, 205. 423 
galbanum, compound. 112 
hemlock pitch. 423 
iron. 152 



626 INDEX. 


Plaster, mercury, 356, 358 


Potassium acetate, 319 


opium, 62 


alum, 191 


pitch with cantharides, 424 


and sodium tartrate, 287 


warming, 424 


bicarbonate, 395 


Plasters, 39 


bichromate, 391, 436 


Plumbi acetas, 188 


bitartrate, 286, 319 


carbonas, 190 


carbolate, 409 


iodidum, 189, 371 


carbonate, 394 


nitras, 189 


chlorate, 390 


oxidum, 190 


citrate, 235 


praeparata, 185 


mixture of, 236 


subacetatis liquor, 189 


solution of, 236 


Plummer's pills, 232 


cyanide, 95 


Pneumatic method, 20 


hypophosphite, 387 


Podophyllum, 299 


iodide, 372 


peltatum, 299 


ioduretted, 372 


Poison-nut, 240 


ointment of, 372 


Poison-oak, 244 


myronate, 421 


Poke-berries, 226 


nitrate, 332 


root, 218, 226 


permanganate, 403 


Polychroite, 461 


preparations, 394 


Polygala senega, 330 


sulphate, 285 


Polygalaceae, 330 


sulphite, 171 


Polygaleae, 180 


sulpho-carbolate, 409 


Polygalic acid, 331 


sulphuret, 280 


Polygonaceae, 287 


tartrate, 286 


Pomatum, Dupuytren's, 430 


Potato flies, 430 


Pomegranate, 468 


spirit, 107, 193 


rind, 184 


Pound, 40 


Poppy, black, 54 


Poultices, 39, 439 


white, 54 


Powder of aloes and canella, 133 


Porphyroxin, 56 


antimonial, 233 


Port wine, 197 


aromatic, 211 


Porter, 198 


compound chalk, 401 


Potassa, 432 


effervescing, 287 


alum, 191 


Dover's, 310 


cum calce, 433 


gray, 356, 359- 


solution of, 394 


James', 232 


sulphurata, 280 


Jesuit's, 139 


with lime, 433 


nitrous, 234 


Potassii acetas, 319 


of ipecac and opium, 63, 269, 310 


bicarbonas, 395 


of jalap, compound, 298 


birchromas, 391, 436 


of liquorice, compound, 295 


bitartras, 286, 319 


of morphia, compound, 64 


bromidum, 67 


of opium, 62 


carbonas, 394 


of rhubarb, compound, 290 


pura, 394 


Tully's, 64 


chloras, 390 


Powders, 31 


citras, 235 


Seidlitz, 287, 398 


cyanidum, 95 


Precipitated calcium carbonate, 401 


et sodii tartras, 287 


phosphate, 386 


hypophosphis, 387 


ferrous sulphate, 153 


iodidum, 372 


sulphur, 280 


nitras, 232 


zinc carbonate, 163 


permanganas, 403 


Precipitation, 32 


praeparata, 394 


Preparations of ammonia, 199 


sulphas, 285 


of antimony, 228, 310 


sulphis, 171 


of arsenic, 378 


sulphuretum, 280 


of bismuth, 166 


tartras, 286 


of copper, 160 



INDEX. 



527 



Preparations of lead, 185 

of lithium, 398 

of mercury, 352 

of iron, 149, 349, 351 

of potassium, 394 

of silver, 164 

of sodium, 395 

of zinc, 161 
Prepared calamine, 163 

chalk, 401 
Pride of China, 466 
Proof spirit, 197 
Propenyl hydrate, 454 
Prunes, 274 
Prunus serotina, 147 

Virginiana, 146 
Prussic acid, 92 
Pseudaconitia, 86 
Pseudomorphia, 56 
Pseudojervia, 218 
Psychotria emetica, 267 
Pterocarpin, 461 
Pterocarpus erinaceus, 179 

marsupium, 179 

santalinus, 461 
Pulsatilla, 222 
Pulveres, 31 

effervescentes aperientes, 287 
Pulverization of fluids, 48 
Pulvis antimonialis, 232 

aromaticus, 211 

cretae compositus, 401 

effervescens compositus, 287. 
398 

glycyrrhizas compositus, 295 

ipecacuanha? et opii, 63, 269, 310 

jalapae compositus, 286 

morphise compositus, 64 

rhei compositus, 290 
Pumpkin, 469 

seed, 469 
Punica granatum, 184, 468 
Purgatives, 273 
Purging cassia, 277 
Purple foxglove, 249 
Pyrocatechin, 179 
Pyroligneous acid, 336 
Pyrophosphate of iron, 156 
Pyroxylin, 456 
Pyroxylinum, 456 

Quaker button, 240 
Quassia, 121 

amara, 121 
Quassin, 121 
Queen's delight, 317 
Querci-tannic acid, 181 
Quercin, 181 
Quercitrin, 178, 181 
Quercitron, 181 



Quercus alba, 181 

infectoria, 177 

tinctoria, 181 
Quevenne's iron, 151 
Quicksilver, 352 
Quillaia, 332 

saponaria, 332 
Quinamia, 137 
Quinamina, 137 
Quince seed, 446 
Quinia, 134, 235, 136 

amorphous, 143 

bisulphate, 142 

carbolate, 143 

citrate, 143 

crude, 143 

hydrobromate, 143 

phosphate, 143 

salicylate, 143 

sulphate, 136, 141 

sulphocarbolate, 143 

sulphovinate, 143 
Quinise bisiilphas, 142 

hydrobromas, 143 

hydrochloras, 143 

sulphas, 136, 141 

valerianas, 142 
Quinicia, 137, 143 
Quinicine, 137, 143 
Quinidia, 135, 137 
Quinidina, 135, 137 
Quinidinse sulphas, 144 
Quinina, 134, 135, 136 
Quininse bisulphas, 142 

hydrobromas, 143 

hydrochloras, 143 

sulphas, 142 

valerianas, 142 
Quinine, 134, 135, 136 

bisulphate, 142 

crude, 143 

carbolate, 143 

citrate, 142 

hydrobromate, 143 

hydrochl orate, 143 

phosphate, 143 

salicylate, 143 

sulphate, 142 

sulphocarbolate, 143 

sulphovinate, 143 

valerianate, 142 
Quinoidia, 143 
Quinoidin, 143 

Race, influence of, 45 
Rain-water, 439 
Raisins, 274 

Ranunculaceae, 85, 122, 222, 227, 25: 
Red bark, 135 
cedar, 350 



528 



INDEX. 



Red iodide of mercury, 365 

ipecacuanha. 266 

oxide of mercury, 357, 359 

pepper, 205, 422 

precipitate, 359 

rose, 184 

saunders, 461 

sulphide of mercury, 357, 366 
Reduced iron, 151 
Refined liquorice, 448 
Refrigerant diaphoretics, 310 
Refrigerants, 217, 235, 310, 319 
Reinsch's test forarsenious acid, 380 
Remedies, definition of, 17 

division of, 17 

hygienic, 17 

imponderable, 17, 23 

mechanical, 17 

pharmacological, 17, 27 
Resin, 333, 334, 336 

cerate, 337 

of copaiba, 338 

of jalap, 298 

of May-apple, 300 

of scammony, 303 

plaster, 337 
Resina, 333, 334, 336 

jalapse, 298 

podophylli, 300 

scammonii, 303 
Resorcin, 112 
Rhamnaceae, 295, 296 
Rhamnus frangula, 295 

purshiana, 296 
Rhatania-tannic acid, 180 
Rhatanic acid, 180 
Rhatany, 180 
Rheatannic acid, 289 
Rheum, 287 

officinale, 287 
Rheumic acid, 289 
Rhigolene, 106 
Rhoeadinia, 56 
Rhoeagenia, 56 
Rhubarb, 287 
Rhus toxicodendron, 244 
Ricinolein, 278 
Ricinus communis, 277 
Rio Negro sarsaparilla, 313 
Riverius, salt of, 235 
Rochelle salt, 287 
Rock candy, 459 
Rosa centifolia, 184 

gallica, 184 
Rosacea^ 96, 147, 184, 185, 332, 446, 

468 
Rose red, 184 

white, 184 
Rose-water, 184 
Rosemary, 216 



Rosin, 336 
Rosmarinus, 215 

officinalis, 215 
Rottlera, 469 

tinctoria, 469 
Rottlerin, 469 
Rubefacients, 193, 419 
Rubiacese, 115, 333, 266 
Rubijervia, 218 
Rubus, 185 

Canadensis, 185 

villosus, 185 
Rue, 350 
Rufus' pills, 292 
Rum, 198 

bay, 198 
Russian musk, 117 

rhubarb, 288 
Ruta, 350 

graveolens, 350 
Rutaceae, 131, 310, 342, 350 
Rye, 244 

Sabbatia, 124 

angularis, 124 
Sabina, 349 

Saccharated ferrous carbonate, 152 
iodide, 155 

pancreatin, 149 

pepsin, 149 
Saccharum, 458 

lactis, 459 

officinarum, 458 

Saturni, 188 
Saffranin, 461 
Saffron, 460 
Sage, 215 
Sal ammoniac, 388 

diureticus, 319 

prunelle, 232 
Salicaceae, 146 
Salicin, 146,411 
Salicinum, 146 
Salicylate of lithium, 415 

of physostigmine, 259 

of quinia, 143 

of sodium, 414 
Salicylic acid, 411 
Saline cathartics, 273, 281 

diuretics, 319 

refrigerants, 319 
Salix, 146 

alba, 146 
Salkowski's test for carbolic acid. 

406 
Salt, Epsom's, 282 

Glauber's, 283 

Rochelle, 287 

of Riverius, 235 

of tartar, 394 



INDEX. 



529 



Saltpetre, 232 
Salve, Deshler's, 337 
Salvia, 215 

officinalis, 215 
Sambucus, 296 

Canadensis, 296 
Sanguinaria, 269 

Canadensis, 269 
Sanguinarina, 269 
Sanguinarine, 269 
Sanguisuga officinalis, 18 
Santalaceae, 340 
Santalic acid, 461 
Santalum album, 340 

rubrum, 461 
Santonica, 465 
Santonin, 465 
Santoninum, 465 
Sapindacea?, 116 
Sapo viridis, 437 
Saponin, 332 

Sarothamnus scoparius, 328 
Sarsaparilla, 312 
Sassafras, 317 

medulla, 445 

officinale, 317, 445 

pith. 445 
Saunders, red, 461 
Savine, 349 
Scammonin, 303 ' 
Scammonium, 302 
Scammonv, 302 
Scarifications, 18, 19 
Scilla, 272, 320, 333 
Scillin, 320 
Scillipicrin. 320 
Scillitoxin, 320 
Sclererythoin, 246 
Sclerocrvstallin, 246 
Scleromucin, 246 
Sclerotic acid, 243 
Sclerotium, 245 
Scleroxanthin, 246 
Scoparin, 328 
Scoparius, 328 
Scrophulariaceae, 249, 295 
Scruple, 40 

Scudamore's draught, 323 
Scutillaria, 114 

laterifolia, 114 
Seaside grape, 179 
Season of gathering, influence of, on 

plants, 30 
Secale cereale, 244 
Sedatives, 53, 217, 320 
Seidlitz powder, 287, 398 
Semi-solids, 31, 38 
Senega, 330, 349 
Senegal gum, 441 
Seneka, 330 

34 



Senna, 293 

Sennacrol, 284 

Serous membranes, application of 

medicines to, 50 
Serpentaria, 126 
Sesamum indicum, 446 
Setacea, 19 
Setons, 19 
Sevum, 452 

Sex, influence of, on medicinal ef- 
fects, 44 
Sheep, 452 
Sherry wine, 197 
Sialagogues, 354 
Signs and abbreviations, 471 
Silver fir, 423 

nitrate, 164 

fused, 166, 432 
diluted, 166 

oxide, 166 
Simaruba excelsa, 121 
Simarubaceas, 121 
Simple bitters, 120, 121 
Sinalbin, 421 
Sinapis, 272, 420 

alba, 272, 420 

nigra, 272, 420 
Sinapism, 422 
Sinigrin, 421 
Sipirina, 147 

Skin, applications of medicines to, 45 
Skullcap, 114 
Skunk cabbage, 114 
Slippery elm, 444 

bark, 444 
Sloe, 261 

Smelling salts, 201 
Smilaceae, 312 
Smilacine, 313 
Smilax officinalis, 312 

medica, 312 
Smyrna opium, 55 
Snakeroot, black, 252 

seneka, 330 

Virginia, 126 
Soap bark, 332 

cerate, 190 

liniment, 99 

plaster, 190 
Socotrine aloes, 291 
Soda, 434 
Sodii acetas, 319 

arsenias, 384 

benzoas, 417 

bicarbonas, 397 
venalis, 397 

boras, 416 

bromidum, 72 

carbonas, 397 

exsiccata, 397 



530 



INDEX. 



Sodii hypophosphis, 387 

hyposulphis, 171 

iodidum, 374 

nitras, 235 

phosphas, 284 

praeparata, 395 

salicylas, 414 

santoninas, 466 

sulphas, 283 

sulphas, 171 

sulpho-carbolas, 409 
Sodium acetate, 319 

arseniate, 384 

benzoate, 417 

bicarbonate, 397 

borate, 416 

bromide, 72 

carbonate, 396 
dried, 397 

carbolate, 409 

hypophosphite, 387 

hyposulphite, 171 

iodide, 394 

nitrate, 235 

phosphate, 284 

preparations, 395 

salicylate, 414 

santoninate, 466 

sulphate, 283 

sulphite, 171 

sulpho-carbolate, 409 
Soil, influence of, on plants, 31 
Solanaceae, 73, 77, 79, 81, 83, 91, 204 
Solania, 92 
Solanum dulcamara, 91 

nigrum, 92 

tuberosum, 92 
Solids, 31 

Solubility, influence of, on medi- 
cines, 31 
Soluble glass, solution of, 458 

gun-cotton, 456 

tartar, 286 
Solution, Donovan's, 385 

Fowler's, 383 

Labarraque's disinfecting, 405 

Lugol's, 371 

Magendie's, 64 

Monsel's, 154 

of ammonium acetate, 236 

of arsenic and mercuric iodide, 
385 

of arsenic chloride, 384 

of arsenious acid, 384 

of chlorinated soda, 405 

of gutta percha, 457 

of iodine, compound, 371 

of iron acetate, 157 

and quinine citrate, 158 
chloride. 155 



Solution of iron citrate, 157 
nitrate, 157 
subsulphate, 154 
tersulphate, 154 



of lime, 400 

of magnesian citrate, 283 

of mercuric nitrate, 357, 367, 436 

of pepsin, 149 

of potassa, 394 

of potassium arsenite, 383 

of potassium citrate, 236 

of soda, 395 

of sodium arseniate, 384 
silicate, 458 

of soluble glass, 458 

of zinc chloride, 163 
Solutions, 32, 35 
Soporifics, 54 
South American kino, 179 
Spanish fly, 426 
Sparteia, 328 
Spastics, 240 
Spearmint, 214 

water, 214 
Special diuretics, 320 
Spermaceti, 452 

cerate, 452 

whale, 452 
Spice plaster, 425 
Spiced syrup of rhubarb, 290 
Spigelia, 462 

marilandica, 462 
Spinants, 53, 240 
Spiraea ulmaria, 411 
Spirit of ammonia, 200 

aromatic, 200. 39^ 

anise, 216 

camphor, 98 

chloroform, 106 

cinnamon, 206 

ether, compound, 119 

gaultheria, 213 

juniper, 328 

compound, 32^ 

lavender, 214 

compound, 214 

lemon, 237 

mindererus, 236 

myrcia, 198 

nitre, sweet, 237 

nitrous ether, 237 

nutmeg, 208 

orange peel, 214 

peppermint, 214 

spearmint, 214 

turpentine, 208, 333. 334, 335 

proof, 197 
Spirits, 36 



INDEX. 



531 



Spiritus, 36 

aetheris compositus, 119 
nitrosi, 237 

ammonias, 200 

aromaticus, 200. 399 

anisi, 216 

aurantii, 214 

camphorae, 98 

chloroformi, 106 

cinnamomi, 206 

frumenti, 198 

gaultheriae, 213 

juniperi, 198, 328 
compositus, 328 

lavandulae, 214 

compositus, 214 

limonis, 239 

menthae piperitae, 214 
viridis, 214 

mindereri, 236 

myrciae, 198 

myristicse, 207 

sacchari, 198 

odoratus, 215 

vini Gallici, 198 
Spruce, hemlock, 424 

Norway, 423 
Spurious Burgundy pitch, 424 
Squill, 272, 320, 333 
Squirting cucumber, 305 
St. Ignatius' bean, 244 
Staphisagria, 227 
Staphisiana, 227 
Star anise, 216 
Starch, 450 
Static electricity, 26 
Stavesacre, 227 
Stearic acid, 454 

ether, 452 
Stearin, 452 
Sterculiaceas, 452 
Sternutatories, 47 
Stethal alcohol, 452 
Stillingia, 319 

sylvatica, 319 
Stimulants, 53, 192 

aromatic, 193, 203 

diffusible, 193 
Stimulating diaphoretics, 310, 320 

diuretics, 349 
Stomach, influence of, condition of, 

45 
Stomachics, 193 
Storax, 347 
Stramonii folia, 77 

semen, 77 
Stramonine, 78 
Stramonium, 77 

leaves, 77 

seed, 77 



Stronger ether, 100 

water of ammonia, 200, 430 

white wine, 197 
Strychnia, 241, 244 
Strychnia? sulphas, 242 
Strychnina, 241, 244 
Strychninas sulphas, 242 
Strychnine, 241, 244 

sulphate, 242 
Strychnos nux vomica, 240 

Ignatia, 244 
Styptic collodion, 457 
Styracese, 346 
Styrax, 347 

benzoin, 346 
Styrol, 347 
Sturgeon, 451 
Subacetate of copper, 161 

lead, solution of, 189 
Subcarbonate of bismuth, 167 
Sublimed sulphur, 279 
Subnitrate of bismuth, 166 
Subsulphate of mercury, yellow, 160, 

357, 366 
Succi, 37 

Succinic acid, 118 
Succinum, 118 
Succus limonis, 239 
Sudorifics, 309 
Suet, 452 
Sugar, 458 

of lead, 188 

milk, 459 
Sulphate of aluminium, 192 

aluminium and ammonium, 191 

bebeeria, 148 

cinchonia, 143 

cinchonidia, 144 

copper, 160, 272, 436 

iron, 153 

dried, 153 
precipitated, 153 
and ammonium, 159 

magnesium, 282 

manganese, 284 

morphia, 64 

potassium, 285 

quinia, 136, 141 

quinidia, 144 

sodium, 283 

strychnia, 242 

zinc, 162 
Sulphide of calcium, 171 

of mercury, red, 357, 366 
Sulphides, 171 
Sulphite of ammonium, 171 

calcium, 171 

magnesium, 171 

potassium, 171 

sodium, 171 



532 



INDEX. 



Sulphites, 171 
Sulphocarbolate of quinia, 143 

calcium, 409 

lead. 410 

magnesium, 409 

potassium, 409 

sodium, 410 
Sulphocarbolates, 409 
Sulpbocarbolic acid, 408 
Sulphocyanide of allyl, 421 
Sulpbovinate of quinia, 143 
Sulphur, 279 

iodide, 372 

lotum, 279 

praecipitatum, 280 

sublimatum, 279 
Sulphurated antimony, 231 

potassa, 280 
Sulphuric acid, 169 

aromatic, 170 
diluted, 170 

ether, 100 
Sulphuris iodidum, 372 
Sulphurous acid, 170 
Sumbul, 263 
Suppositoria, 38 
Suppositories, 38, 50 

of asafetida, 111 

belladonn 

lead, 189 

tannic acid, 176 
Suppurants, 419, 431 
Sus scrofa, 451 
Swamp hellebore, 218 
Sweet oil, 277 

orange peel, 213 

spirit of nitre, 237 

tincture of rhubarb, 290 
Sydenham's laudanum, 64 
Symplocarpus fcetidus, 114 
Syrup, 38 

of almond, 96 

blackberry, 185 

calcium lactophosphate, 386 

citric acid, 239 

garlic, 333 

ginger, 210 

gum arabic, 442 

hypophosphit'es, 387 
with iron, 159, 387 
iodide, 156 

quinine and strychnine phos- 
phate, 159 

ipecac, 269 

iron bromide, 157 

krameria, 180 

lactucarium, 73 

lemon, 239 

niarshmallow, 446 

prunus Virginiana, 147 



Syrup of orange flowers, 214 

peel, 214 
rhatany, 180 
rhubarb, 290 

aromatic, 290 

spiced, 290 
rose, 184 

sarsaparilla, compound, 314 
senega, 332 
senna, 294 
squill, 321 

compound, 321, 332 
tar, 336 
tolu, 348 
wild cherry, 147 
Syrupi, 37 
Syrups, 37 
Syrupus, 37 

acaciae, 442 
acidi citriei, 239 
allii, 333 
altheae, 446 
amygdalae, 96 
aurantii, 214 

florum, 214 
calcis lactophosphatis, 386 
ferri bromidi, 157 

iodidi, 156 

quiniae et strychnia? phos- 
phatum, 159 
hypophosphitum, 387 

cum ferro, 159, 387 
ipecacuanhse, 269 
krameriaa, 180 
lactucarii, 73 
limonis, 239 
picis liquidae, 336 
pruni Virginianae, 147 
rhei, 290 

aromaticus, 290 
rosae, 184 
rubi, 185 

sarsaparillae compositus, 314 
scillae, 321 

compositus, 321, 332 
senegae, 332 
sennae, 294 
tolutanus, 348 
zingiberis, 210 

Tabacum, 81 

Table for converting G. C. into f£, 42 

apothecaries' weights and mea- 
sures into gram weights, 43 
Tablespoon, 42 
Tamarind, 275 
Tamarindus, 275 

Indica, 275 
Tannate of iron. 175 
Tannic acid, 174, 177, 181, 183, 185 



INDEX. 



533 



Tar. 336 

Taraxacerin, 327 
Taraxacin, 327 
Taraxacum, 326 

dens-leonis, 326 
Tartar, 239 

cream of, 286, 319 

crude, 286 

emetic, 228, 272 

salt of, 394 

soluble, 286 
Tartaric acid, 239 
Tartarized antimony, 228, 272 
Tartrate of antimony and potassium. 
228, 272 

iron and ammonium, 159 
potassium, 156 

potassium, 286 

potassium and sodium, 287 
Tea, 115 

Paraguay, 116 

worm, 464 
Teaberry, 212 
Teacup, 42 
Teaspoon, 42 

Temperament, influence of, on med- 
icinal effects, 44 
Terebinthaceae, 244 
Terebinthina, 333 

canadensis, '334 
Terra japonica, 178 
Terrestromiacea?, 115 
Test for arsenic, Marsh's, 379 
Reinsch's, 380 

for carbolic acid, Plugge's. 406 
Salkowski's, 406 

Heropath's, 137 

Marsh's, 228 

Trapp's, 221 
Tetrachloride of carbon, 108 
Thea, 115 

sinensis, 115 
Thebaia, 56, 58 
Thebolactic acid, 56 
Theina, 115, 116 
Theobroma. 116 

cacao, 453 
Theobromia, 116, 453 
Theobromine, 453 
Therapeutics, definition of, 28 
Thornapple, 77 
Thorough wort, 129 
Thynielaceae, 315 
Thymene, 215 
Thymol, 215, 418 
Thymus vulgaris, 215, 418 
Tiglinic acid, 306 
Tinctura aconiti, 88, 217 
aloes, 293 
aloes et myrrhse, 293 



Tinctura arnicae florum, 225 

radicis, 225 
asafoetidae, 111 
aurantii amari, 214 

dulcis, 214 
belladonnas, 77 
benzoini, 347 

composita, 347 
bryonias, 299 
calendulae, 317 
calumbae, 126 
cannabis indica?, 89 
cantharidis, 329 
capsici, 205, 423 
cardamomi, 211 

composita, 211 
catechu composita, 179 
cimicifugae, 254 
cinchonae, 141 

composita, 141 
cinnamomi, 206 
colchici, 324 
conii, 257 
croci, 461 
cuhebae, 340 
digitalis, 252 
ferri acetatis, 158 

chloridi, 155 
gallae, 178 
gelsemii, 224 
gentianae composita, 123 
guaiaci, 315 

ammoniata, 315 
humuli, 90 
hydrastis, 329 
hyoscyami, 80 
ignatise, 244 
iodi, 371 
ipecacuanhae, 269 

et opii, 63 
kino, 179 
krameriee, 180 
lobelia?, 85 
matico, 341 
moschi, 118 
myrrhae, 346 
nucis vomicae, 244 
opii, 63 

camphorata, 63 

deodorata, 64 
physostigmatis, 259 
quassiae, 121 
rhei, 290 

aromatica, 290 

dulcis, 290 
sanguinariae, 271 
saponis viridis, 437 
scill<e, 321 
serpentariae, 128 
stramonii, 79 



534 



INDEX. 



Tinctura sumbul, 264 
tolutana, 348 
Valerianae, 113 

ammoniata, 113 
vanillee, 217 
veratri viridis, 221 
zingiberis, 210 
Tincturse, 35 

Tincture of aconite, 88, 217 
aloes, 293 

and myrrh, 293 
American hellebore, 221 
arnica flowers, 225 

root, 225 ' 
asafetida, 111 
belladonna, 77 
benzoin, 347 

compound, 347 
bitter orange, 214 
bloodroot, 271 
bryony, 299 
calabar bean, 259 
calendula, 317 
cantharides, 329 
capsicum, 205, 423 
cardamom, 211 

compound. 211 
catechu, 179 
chloride of iron, 155 
cimicifuga, 254 
cinchona, 141 

compound, 141 
cinnamon, 206 
colchicum, 324 
columbo, 126 
conium, 257 
coptis, 123 
crocus, 461 
cubeb, 340 
digitalis, 252 
ferric acetate, 158 

chloride, 155 
galls, 178 
gelsemium, 224 
gentian, compound, 123 
ginger, 210 
goldthread, 123 
green soap, 437 
guaiac, 315 

ammoniated, 315 
hops, 90 
Huxham's, 141 
hydrastis, 329 
hyoscyamus, 80 
ignatia, 244 
Indian hemp, 89 
iodine, 371 

compound, 371 
ipecac and opium, 63 
kino, 179 



Tincture of krameria, 180 

liriodendron, 131 

lobelia, 85 

lupulin, 90 

matico, 341 

musk, 118 

myrrh, 346 

nutgall, 178 

nux vomica, 244 * 

opium, 63 

camphorated, 63 
deodorized, 64 

orange-peel, 214 

quassia, 121 

Phytolacca, 227 

rhatany, 180 

rhubarb, 290 

and aloes, 290 
and gentian, 290 
and senna, 290 
aromatic, 290 
sweet, 290 

rottlera, 469 

saffron, 461 

sanguinaria, 271 

serpentaria, 128 

squill, 321 

staphisagria, 228 

stramonium, 79 

sumbul, 264 

sweet orange, 214 

tolu, 348 

valerian, 113 

ammoniated, 113 

vanilla, 217 

veratrum viride, 221 

yellow jasmine, 224 
Tinctures, 35 
Tinnevelly senna, 293 
Tobacco, 81, 272 

Indian, 85, 272 . 
Tolerance to medicines in disease, 44 

established by habit, 45 
Tolu, balsam of, 348 
Tonics, 53, 120 

mineral, 120, 149 

vegetable, 119 
Topical medicines, 53, 402 
Toxicodendric acid, 244 
Toxicodendron, Rhus, 244 
Tragacanth, 442 
Tragacantha, 442 
Tragacanthine, 443 
Transfusion of blood, 51 
Trapp's test for veratria, 221 
Treacle, 459 
Tremor mercurialis, 353 
Trimethylamia, 376 
Trimethylamine, 376 
Tripoli senna, 293 



INDEX. 



535 



Triticm, 327 
Triticum, 327 

repens, 327 

vulgare, 450 
Trituratio elaterini, 306 • • 

Trituration of elaterin, 306 
Troches, 33 

of ammonium chloride, 389 

bicarbonate of sodium, 397 

chalk, 401 

chlorate of potassium, 391 

cubeb, 340 

ginger, 210 

ipecac, 269 

iron, 152 

liquorice and opium, 62 
t magnesia, 400 

morphia and ipecacuanha, 64, 
269 

peppermint, 215 

potassium chlorate, 391 

sodium bicarbonate, 398 
santoninate, 466 
Trochisci, 33 

acidi tannici, 176 

ammonii chloridi, 389 

catechu, 178 

cretee, 401 

cubebae, 340 

ferri, 152 

glycyrrhizae et opii, 62 

ipecacuanha?, 269 

kranieriae, 180 

magnesia?, 400 

menthae piperita?, 214 

morphiae et ipecacuanhas, 64, 269 

potassii chloratis, 391 

sodii bicarbonatis, 398 
santoninatis, 466 

zingiberis, 210 
Troy weight, 40 
Tulip tree, 131 

bark, 131 
Tully's powder, 64 
Turkey gum, 441 

opium, 55 

rhubarb, 287 
Turner's cerate, 163 
Turpentine, 333 

American, 333 

Bordeaux, 334 

Canada, 334 

Chian, 334 

Venice, 334 

white, 334 
Turpeth mineral, 272, 357, 366 
Tutty, 162 

Ulcers, application of medicines to, 

50 



Ulmus, 444 

fulva, 444 
Umbellifera?, 110, 111, 112, 216, 254, 

263, 329 
Umbelliferone, 110, 112 
Unguenta, 39 
Unguentum, 39, 452 
acidi carbolici, 409 

tannici, 176 
antimonii, 231, 431 
aquae rosae, 184 
belladonnas, 77 
chrysarobini, 438 
gallae, 178 
hydrargyri, 356, 358 

ammoniati, 357, 366 
nitratis, 357, 367 
oxidi flavi, 356, 360 
oxidi rubri, 357, 359 
iodi, 371 
iodoformi, 375 
mezereri, 316 
picis liquidaa, 336 
plumbi carbonatis. 190 

iodidi, 189 
potassii iodidi, 373 
stramonii, 79 
sulphuris, 280 

alkalinum, 280 
veratriae, 222 
zinci oxidi, 162 
Urginea scilla, 320 
Urson, 213 
Ursone, 343, 345 
Urticaceae, 88, 89, 444 
Ustilago, 248 
maydis, 248 



Valeriana, 112 

officinalis, 112 
Valerianaceae, 112 
Valerianate of ammonium, 113 
elixir of, 114 

bismuth, 167 

caffeina, 116 

iron, 159 

quinia, 142 

zinc, 164 
Valerianic acid, 113, 129 
Vallet's ferruginous pill, 152 
Vanilla, 216 

planifolia, 216 
Vanillin, 217 
Vapours, 40 

Various-leaved fleabane, 324 
Vaseline, 39, 455 

Veins, injection of medicines into, 51 
Vegetable acids, 237 



536 



INDEX. 



Vegetable astringents, 174 
emetics, 266 
tonics, 120 
Venesection, 17 
Venice turpentine, 334 
Vera Cruz sarsaparilla, 313 
Veratria, 218, 221 
Veratrina, 218, 221 
Veratrine, 218, 221 
Veratroidia, 218 
Veratrum viride, 218 
Verdigris, 161 
Vermilion, 367 
Vesicants, 193, 419, 425 
Vesicating taffetas, 429 

ointment, Gondret's, 430 
Viburnum, 261 

prunifolium, 261 
Vienna paste, 434 
Vina, 36 
Vinegar, 238 

of bloodroot, 271 

lobelia, 85 

opium, 64 

sanguinaria, 271 

squill, 321 
Vinegars, 37 
Vinum album, 197 

aloes, 293 

antimonii, 231 

aromaticum, 131, 215 

colchici radicis, 324 
seminis, 324 

ergotas, 248 

ferri amarum, 158 
eitratis, 159 

fortis, 197 

ipecacuanha, 269 

opii, 64 

rhei, 290 

rubrum, 197 

viola tricolor, 276 

violaceae, 276 
Virgin scammony, 302 
Virginia snakeroot, 126 
Vitriol, blue, 160 

elixir of, 170 

green, 153 

oil of, 169 

white, 162 
Volatile alkali, 199 

liniment, 423 

oil of mustard, 420, 422 

oils, 203 
Voltaic electricity, 26 
Von Hebra's green soap, 437 

Wah oo, 301 
Warming plaster, 424 
Warner's gout cordial, 290 



Washed sulphur, 279 
Water, 439 

chlorine, 404 
distilled, 439 
rain, 439 
snow, 439 

of ammonia, 200, 430 
stronger, 200, 430 
anise, 216 
bitter almonds, 96 
camphor, 98 
creasote, 411 
fennel, 216 
orange flower, 214 
peppermint, 214 
rose, 184 
spearmint, 214 
Waters, medicated, 34 
Wax, 452 

Weights and measures, 40 
Whale, spermaceti, 452 
Whisky, 198 
White arsenic, 378 
ginger, 210 
lead, 190 
mustard, 420 
oak, 181 
pepper, 205 
precipitate, 357, 365 
vitriol, 162 
wax, 452 
willow, 146 
wine, 197 

stronger, 197 
Wild chamomile, 129 
cherry, 146 
valerian, 112 
Willow, 146 
Wine, 198 

aromatic, 215 
of aloes, 292 
antimony, 231 
colchicum root, 324 

seed, 324 
ergot, 248 
ipecacuanha, 269 
iron, bitter, 158 
citrate, 159 
pepsin, 149 
madeira, 197 
measure, 42 
of opium, 64 
port, 197 
red, 197 
rhubarb, 290 
sherry, 198 
tobacco, 83 
white, 197 

stronger, 197 
Wineglass, 42 



INDEX. 



537 



Wine-whey, 197 
Wines, 36 
Wintergreen, 344 
Wistar's cough lozenges, 62 
Witch hazel, 183 
Wolfsbane, 85 
Woody nightshade, 91 
Woorali, 260 
Woorara, 260 
Woorari, 260 
Worm tea, 464 
Wormseed, 464 
Levant, 464 
Wormwood, 130 

Wounds, application of medicines 
to, 50 

Xanthopuccina, 329 

Yarrow, 133 
Yellow bark, 134 

gentian, 123 

jasmine, 223 

lady's slipper, 114 

oxide of mercury, 356, 359 

parilla, 316 

pine, 334 

precipitate, 359 

root, 329 

subsulphate of mercury, 272, 
357, 366 



Yellow wash, 360 

wax, 452 
Young's scheme for doses, 44 

Zea mays, 248 
Zinc acetate, 162 

chloride, 163, 435 
solution of, 163 

iodide, 164, 372 

oxide, 162 

ointment of, 162 

phosphide, 203 

precipitated carbonate. 163 

preparations, 161 

sulphate, 162, 272 

valerianate, 164 
Zinci acetas, 162 

carbonas praecipitatus, 163 

chloridum, 163, 435 

iodidum, 164, 372 

oxidum, 162 

praeparata, 161 

phosphidum, 203 

sulphas, 162, 272 

valerianas, 164 
Zingiber, 210, 425 

officinale, 210 
Zingiberaceae, 210, 211 
Zygophyllaceae, 314 



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ATTHILL, DISEASES OF WOMEN. 

Clinical Lectures on Diseases Peculiar to Women. By Lombe Atthill, m.d. 
5th edition, revised and enlarged, with numerous illustrations. i2mo. Cloth. 

Price $1.25 

" It is the concentrated essence of the knowledge of one who has become wise by reason of long and weH- 
digested experience in the subjects treated." — American Journal of Medical Science. 
" The work is one of great value to the general practitioner." — American Journa-l of Obstetrics. 

AVELING, POSTURE IN OPERATIONS. 

The Influence of Posture on Women in Gynecic and other Operations. By 
J. H. Aveling, m.d. Illustrated. 8vo. Price $2.00 

A subject which hitherto has received but little attention is here treated in a 
very thorough manner, showing the importance of certain postures, and the 
various diseases produced by awkward and unhealthy positions. 



BALFOUR, ON THE HEART AND^ AORTA. 

Clinical Lectures on Diseases of the Heart and Aorta. By G. W. Balfour, 
m.d. Illustrated. 2d Edition. Price $5.00 

" The whole work reflects much credit on its author, and firmly establishes his reputation as an authority on the 
important diseases of which he treats." — London Practitioner . 

BARTH AND ROGER, AUSCULTATION AND PERCUS- 
SION. 

A Manual for the Student. By M. Barth and M. Henri Roger. Trans- 
lated from the 6th French Edition. i2mo. Price $1.00 

BIBLE HYGIENE; 

Or, Health Hints. By a Physician. This book has been written, first, to im- 
part in a popular and condensed form the elements of Hygiene ; second, to show 
how varied and important are the Health Hints contained in the Bible, and third, 
to prove that the secondary tendency of modern Philosophy runs in a parallel 
direction with the primary light of the Bible. i2mo. Paper, .50; Cloth, $1.00 

" The scientific treatment of the subject is quite abreast of the present day, and is so clear and free from unne- 
cessary technicalities that readers of all classes may peruse it with satisfaction and advantage." — Edinburgh 
Medical Journal. 

BIDDLE, MATERIA MEDICA. Ninth Edition. 

Materia Medica for the Use of Students. By John B. Biddle, m.d., Late Pro- 
fessor of Materia Medica at Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. 9th 
edition, Revised, Enlarged and Illustrated. 8vo. Price $4.00 



" The additions are valuable, and we must congrat- 
ulate the author upon having improved what was 
already so useful a work, both to the student and phy- 
sician." — Phila. Medical and Surgical Reporter. 

" It has been the design of the author to present in 
his work a text-book for the student. It is brief, and 
yet sufficiently comprehensive. His style is clear and 
yet succinct. He covers the ground — covers it well, 
and cumbers his work with nothing^ superfluous." — 
Atlanta Medical and Surgical Journal. 



" One thing that particularly recommends this work 
to the student is, that the book is not so large as to dis- 
courage and cause him to feel that it is impossible for 
him to get over it and so much else in the short time 
before him." — St. Louis Medical and Surgical Jour- 
nal. 

" It contains, in a condensed form, all that is valu- 
able in materia medica, and furnishes the medical 
student with a complete manual on this 'subject." — 
Canada Lancet. 



PRESLEY BLAKISTON' S 



BLACK, THE REPRODUCTIVE AND RENAL ORGANS. 

The Functional Diseases of the Renal, Urinary and Reproductive Organs, 
with a General View of Urinary Pathology. By D. Campbell Black, m.d., 
f.r.c.S. i2mo. Price, Cloth, $1.25 

" The title of this book sufficiently indicates its character and scope. Some of the chapters are almost ex- 
haustive of their topics. Thus, in the chapter on spermatorrhoea, the whole philosophy and therapeutics 
of this vexatious condition is given with unusual clearness." — Cincinnati Lancet and Observer. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

DISEASES OF THE KIDNEYS. 

Lectures on Bright' s Disease of the Kidneys. Delivered at the Royal Infirmary, 
Glasgow. With 20 illustrations. 8vo. 

BLOXAM. CHEMISTRY,Inorganic and Organic. Fourth Edition. 

With Experiments. By Charles L. Bloxam, Professor of Chemistry in 
King's College, London, and in the Department for Artillery Studies, Wool- 
wich. Fourth edition. With nearly 300 Engravings. 8vo. Price $4.00 

A most complete Text-Book for Schools and Colleges. 

" Professor Bloxam has given us a most excellent and useful practical treatise. His 666 pages (now 700) are 
crowded with facts and experiments, nearly all well chosen, and many quite new, even to scientific men . . . 
It is astonishing how much information he often conveys in a few paragraphs. We might quote fifty instances of 
this." — Chemical News. 

BLOXAM, LABORATORY TEACHING. Fourth Edition. 

Progressive Exercises in Practical Chemistry. By Charles L. Bloxam, 
Professor of Chemistry in King's College, London, etc. Fourth edition. With 
89 engravings. i2mo. Price $175 

This work is intended for use in the Chemical Laboratory, by those who are 
commencing the study of Practical Chemistry. It contains : — 

1. A series of simple Tables for the analysis of unknown substances of all 
kinds. 2. A brief description of all the practically important single substances 
likely to be met with in ordinary analysis. 3. Simple directions and illustra- 
tions relating to Chemical Manipulation. 4. A system of Tables for the detec- 
tion of unknown substances with the aid of the Blowpipe. 5. Short instructions 
u 4 pon the purchase and preparation of the tests intended for those who have not 
access to a Laboratory. 

" A great amount of valuable practical information is here condensed into a book of 260 pages, such as only a 
practical teacher could prepare." — New England "Journal of Education. 

BRUEN. PHYSICAL DIAGNOSIS. Just Ready. 

A Pocket Book of Physical Diagnosis, for Physicians and Students. By 
Edward T. Bruen, m.d., Asst. Prof, of Clinical Medicine, University of Penn'a. 
Illustrated by Original Wood Engravings. i2mo. Extra Cloth. Price $2.00 

BENNETT. NUTRITION IN HEALTH AND DISEASE. 

A Contribution to Hygiene and Clinical Medicine. By J. Henry Ben- 
nett, m.d. Third Edition, Revised and Enlarged. Cloth. Price $2.50 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

THE TREATMENT OF PULMONARY CONSUMPTION 
BY HYGIENE, CLIMATE AND MEDICINE. 

With an Appendix on the Sanitaria of the United States, Switzerland and 
the Balearic Islands. Third Edition much Enlarged. Price $2.50 

"Any physician may take it up with every feeling of confidence that the views enunciated by the author will be 
found to be able, honest and orthodox." — Medico- Chirurgical Review. 

BERKART, ASTHMA. 

The Pathology and Treatment of Asthma. By Joseph B. Berk art, m.d. 
8vo. Price $2.50 



PUB LIC A TIONS. 



BEALE ON SLIGHT AILMENTS. New Edition. Just Ready. 

Slight Ailments, Their Nature and Treatment. By Lionel S. Beale, m.d., 

f.r.s., Professor of Practice, King's Medical College.. London. Second Edition. 

Enlarged and Illustrated. Price, Cloth, $1.25 ; Paper covers, .75 cents. 

Fine Edition, Heavy Paper. Extra Cloth, Price $1.75 

OUTLINE OF CONTENTS. 

Introductory. The Tongue in Health and Slight Ailments. Appetite. Nausea. Thirst. Hunger. Indigestion, 
its Nature and Treatment. Constipation, its Treatment. Diarrhoea. Vertigo. Giddiness. Biliousness. Sick 
Headache. Neuralgia. Rheumatism. The Feverish and Inflammatory State. Of the Actual Changes in Fever 
and Inflammation. Common Forms of Slight Inflammation, etc., etc. 

" We venture to say that among the numerous medical publications issued during 1880, there has been none 
which will prove more useful to the young general practitioner, for whom it is really intended, than this volume, 
while the time of the older physician might be much more unprofitably spent." — American jfourna.1 of Medical 
Science. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

ON LIFE AND VITAL ACTION IN HEALTH AND DISEASE. 

l2mo. Price $2.00 

THE USE OF THE MICROSCOPE IN PRACTICAL MEDI- 
CINE. 

For Students and Practitioners, with full directions for examining the various 
secretions, etc., in the Microscope. Fourth Edition. 500 Illustrations. Much 
enlarged. 8vo. Price $7-5-3 

We have before us Prof. Beale's work, The Micro- I "As a microscopical observer, and a histological 



manipulator, his (Dr. Beale) skill and eminence are 
generally conceded." — Popular Science Monthly. 



scope in Medicine, a book which it gives us pleasure to 
recommend to every student of microscopy, whether he 
be a physician or naturalist." — Journal of the Frank- 
lin Institute, Philadelphia. 

HOW TO WORK WITH THE MICROSCOPE. 

A Complete Manual of Microscopical Manipulation, containing a full descrip- 
tion of many new processes of investigation, with directions for examining ob- 
jects under the highest powers, and for taking photographs of microscopic 
objects. Fifth Edition. Containing over 400 Illustrations, many of them colored. 
Octavo. Price $7.50 

"The Encyclopaedic character of this last edition of Dr. Beale's well known work on the Microscope renders 
it impossible to present an abstract of its contents ; suffice it to say, that anything in his department upon which 
the physican can desire such information will be found here, and much more in addition. It is, moreover, a store- 
house of facts, most valuable to the physician, and is indispensable to every one who uses the microscope." — 
American Journal of Medical Science. 

BIOPLASM. 

A Contribution to the Physiology of Life, or an Introduction to the Study of 
Physiology and Medicine, for Students. With numerous Illustrations. 

Price $2.25 
PROTOPLASM; or MATTER AND LIFE. 

Third Edition, very much enlarged. Nearly 350 pages. Sixteen Colored 
Plates. Part 1. Dissentient. Part 11. Demonstrative. Part 111. Suggestive. 
One volume. Price $3.00 

LIFE THEORIES; Their Influence upon Religious Thought. 

Six Colored Plates. Price #2.00 

ONE HUNDRED URINARY DEPOSITS, 

On two sheets, for the Hospital, Laboratory, or Surgery. Each Sheet $1.00, or 
on Rollers, Price $1.25 

BERNAY, CHEMISTRY. 

Notes for Students in Chemistry. Compiled from Fowne's and other manuals. 
By Albert J. Bernay, ph.d. Sixth Edition. i2mo. Price $1.25 

BOCK, ANATOMY. 

An Atlas of Human Anatomy. By Prof. C. E. Bock, of Berlin. Thirty-seven 
Colored Plates, containing about 200 figures. Quarto. Half Roan. Price $15.00 

This is one of if not the best Anatomical Atlas now to be had, and its produc- 
tion in Germany makes it certainly the cheapest. 



8 PRESLE V BLAKISTON' S 

BEASLEY. THE BOOK OF PRESCRIPTIONS? 

Containing over 3100 Prescriptions, collected from the Practice of the most 
Eminent Physicians and Surgeons — English, French and American ; a Com- 
pendious History of the Materia Medica, Lists of the Doses of all Officinal and 
Established Preparations, and an Index of Diseases and their Remedies. By 
Henry Beasley. Sixth Edition, Revised and Enlarged. Price 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

THE DRUGGIST'S GENERAL RECEIPT-BOOK. 

Comprising a copious Veterinary Formulary; numerous Recipes in Patent 
and Proprietary Medicines, Druggists' Nostrums, etc. ; Perfumery and Cos- 
metics; Beverages, Dietetic Articles and Condiments; Trade Chemicals, Scien- 
tific Processes, and an Appendix of Useful Tables. Eighth Edition. Price $2.25 

THE POCKET FORMULARY and Synopsis of the British and 
Foreign Pharmacopoeias. 

Comprising Standard and Approved Formulae for the Preparations and Com- 
pounds Employed in Medical Practice. Tenth Edition. 511 pp. i8mo. 

Price $2.25 
BENTLEY AND TRIMEN'S MEDICINAL PLANTS. 

A New Illustrated Work, containing full botanical descriptions, with an account 
of the properties and uses of the principal plants employed in medicine, especial 
attention being paid to those which are officinal in the British and United States 
Pharmacopoeias. The plants which supply food and substances required by the 
sick and convalescent are also included. By R. Bentley, f.r.s., Professor of 
Botany, King's College, London, and H. Trimen, m.b., f.h.s., Department of 
Botany, British Museum. Each species illustrated by a. colored plate drawn 
from nature. In Forty-two parts. Eight colored plates in each part. 

Price $2 each, or handsomely bound in 4 volumes, Half Morocco, $90.00 

" It would be impossible to enumerate all tbe new 
plants that are here delineated. The result is a work 



" This work may be recommended as a most useful 
one to druggists, and all who desire to be familiar 
with the Botany of Medicinal Plants." — Druggists' 
Circular. 

" The work when complete (it is now complete) 
will be the most valuable compend of Medical Botany 
ever published." — Boston Journal of Chemistry. 



which, from all points ofview,isa credit to the scientific 
literature of the day." — London Lancet. 

"It is an indispensable work of reference to every one 
interested in pharmaceutical Botany." — London Phar- 
maceutical Journal. 

BRUBAKER, PHYSIOLOGY. 

A Compend of Physiology specially adapted for the use of Students and Phy- 
sicians. " No. 4, ? Quiz-Compend Series ?" i2mo, Cloth. Price $1.00 
BRUNTON, ACTION OF MEDICINES. 

Experimental Investigation of the Action of Medicines. Part I, Circulation. 
By T. Lauder Brunton, m.d., f.r.s. Second Edition. [Preparing. 

BYFORD. DISEASES OF WOMEN. New Revised Edition. 

The Practice of Medicine and Surgery, as applied to the Diseases of Women. 
By W. H. Byford, a.m., m.d., Professor of Obstetrics and The Diseases of Wo- 
men and Children, in the Chicago Medical College. Third Edition. Revised 
and Enlarged, much of it rewritten, with numerous additional illustrations. 

Price, in Cloth $5.00; Leather, $6.00 

" The author is an experienced writer, an able teach- 
er in his department, and has embodied in the present 
work the results of a wide field of practical observa- 
tion. We have not had time to read its pages critically, 
but freely commend it to all our readers, as one of the 
most valuable practical works issued from the Ameri- 
can press." — Chicago Medical Examiner. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

ON THE UTERUS. The Chronic Inflammation and Displace- 
ment of the Unimpregnated Uterus. 

An Enlarged Edition, with Illustrations. 8vo. Price $2.50 

"A good book from a good man." — American Journal Medical Science. 

" It is a sensible, practical work, and cannot fail to be read with interest and profit." — Boston Medical and 
Surgical Journal. 



" The treatise is as complete a one as the present 
state of our science will admit of being written. We 
commend it to the diligent study of every practitioner 
and student, as a work calculated to inculcate sound 
principles and lead to .enlightened practice. — New 
York Medical Record. 



PUB LIC A TIONS. 



BRAUNE, TOPOGRAPHICAL ANATOMY. 

An Atlas of Topographical Anatomy. Thirty-four Full-page Plates, Photo- 
graphed on Stone, from Plane Sections of Frozen Bodies, with many other illus- 
trations. By Wilhelm Braune, Professor of Anatomy at Leipzig. Translated 
and Edited by Edward Bellamy, f.r.c.s., Lecturer on Anatomy, Charing 
Cross Hospital, London. Quarto. Price, Cloth, $8.00 ; Half Morocco, $10.00 

" A's a whole the work cannot fail to meet with a hearty reception by every progressive student of the human 
body. To the surgeon it is a contribution to the study of topographical anatomy which needs to be known to be 
properly appreciated To such practitioners who reside in large cities, where anatomy can be studied upon the 
cadaver, it will afford a valuable aid, while to those who are without such means of study it is an almost indis- 
pensable addition to a working library." — New York Medical Record. 

" We commend the book most heartily to the Profession."— A?nerican Journal of Medical Science . 

BUCKNILL AND TUKE ON INSANITY. 

A Manual of Pyschological Medicine : containing the Lunacy Laws, the 
Nosology, (Etiology, Statistics, Description, Diagnosis, Pathology (including 
morbid Histology), and Treatment of Insanity. By John Charles Bucknill, 
m.d., f.r.s., and Daniel Hack Tuke, m.d., f.r.c.p. Fourth Edition, much 
enlarged, with twelve lithographic plates, and numerous illustrations. Octavo. 

Price $8.00 

" We have read no book in any language, and certainly none in English, which ought to be preferred to this 
for a text book, by those who wish to make a thorough study of the subject. — Edinburgh Medical Journal. 
" We can heartily commend the work. — American Journal of Insanity. 

BURDETT, HOSPITALS. 

Pay Hospitals and Paying Wards throughout the World. Facts in support 
of a rearrangement of the system of Medical Relief. By Henry C. Burdett. 
8vo. Price $2.25 

" Mr. Burdett displays and discusses the whole scheme of Hospital accommodation with a comprehensive 
understanding of its nature and extent. — American Practitioner. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

COTTAGE HOSPITALS. 

General, Fever, and Convalescent : their Progress, Management, and Work. 
Second Edition, rewritten and much Enlarged, with many Plans and Illustra- 
tions. Crown 8vo. Price $4.50 

Contents. — Chap. — 1. Origin and Growth of the Cottage Hospital System. 2. Comparative Success of 
Treatment in large and small Hospitals. 3. Finance. 4. Cottage Hospital Construction and Sanitary Arrange- 
ments. 5. The Medical and Nursing Departments. 6. Domestic Supervision and General Management. 7. 
Cottage Hospital Appliances and Fittings. 8. Cottage Fever Hospitals. 9. Midwifery in Cottage Hospitals. 10. 
Remunerative Paying Patients. 11. Convalescent Cottages. 12. Cottage Hospitals in America. 13. Mortu- 
aries. 14. A more Detailed Account of certain Cottage Hospitals, with Plans and Elevations. 15. Selected and 
Model Plans criticised and compared, with a detailed description of various Hospitals. 16. Peculiarities and 
Special Features in the Working of Cottage Hospitals. With an Appendix containing much statistical and useful 
information. 

" Mr. Burdett's book contains a mass of information, statistical, financial, architectural, and hygienic, which has 
already proved of great practical utility to those interested in cottage hospitals, and we can confidently recom- 
mend this second edition to all who are in search of the kind of information which it contains." — Lancet. 

BUZZARD, NERVOUS DISEASES. 

Clinical Lectures on Diseases of the Nervous System. By Thos. Buzzard, 
M.d. Illustrated. Octavo. Price $5.00 

CARPENTER, THE MICROSCOPE. Sixth Edition. 

The Microscope and its Revelations. By W. B. Carpenter, m.d., f.r.s. 
Sixth Edition. Revised and Enlarged, with over 500 Illustrations. Price $5.50 



" Not only the student of medicine, but amateurs, 
and others interested in the study of natural history, 
will find this volume one of great practical value." — 
New York Medical Journal. 

" It is by far the most complete and useful treatjse 
now accessible to the student." — The Technologist. 



"As a text book of Microscopy in its special relation 
to natural history and general science, the work before 
us stands confessedly first, and is alone sufficient to 
supply the wants of the ordinary student." — American 
Journal of Microscopy. 



io PRESLEY BLAKISTON'S 

CARTER, EYESIGHT. New Edition now ready. 

Eyesight, Good and Bad. A Treatise on the Exercise and Preservation of 
Vision. By Robert Brudenell Carter, f.r.c.s. Second Edition, with 50 
Illustrations, Test Types, etc. 12010. Price, Cloth, $1.25 

" It is written in a lucid and agreeable style, conveying an easily comprehensible account of the structure of 
the eye and the function of vision, and gives a description of the principal anomalies of the latter, at the same 
time inculcating such salutary advice as may be beneficial for the preservation of sight." — London Medical 
Times and Gazette. 

" There is much wholesome advice given on the ' Care of the Eyes in Infancy and Childhood/ and on this 
account, if no other, the book should be in the hands of every parent and teacher." — St. Louis Courier of 
Medicine. 

CARTER, PRACTICE OF MEDICINE. 

Elements of Practical Medicine. By Alfred H. Carter, m.d., London, 
Member of the Royal College of Physicians ; Physician to the Queen's Hos- 
pital, Birmingham, etc. Crown 8vo. Price $3.00 

" The object of this volume is to provide the student with a general introduction to the study of Medicine, 
and to bring the essentials of the subject, so far as required for the ordinary medical qualifications, within the 
grasp of those who have not the time or leisure to read the larger and more elaborate works on Practice." — 
Preface. 

" Dr. Carter is favorably known as a London physician of learning and experience, and a clear writer. He 
aims to give a judicial epitome of practical medicine, and this is a well-prepared book." — Philadelphia Medi- 
cal and Surgical Reporter. 

CARSON, THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

A History of the Medical Department of the University of Pennsylvania from 
its foundation in 1765, with sketches of deceased Professors, etc. By the late 
Joseph Carson, m.d. 8vo. Price $2.00 

Originally a lecture delivered at the request of the Faculty, this essay has grown 
into an important Historical work of the College and its promoters. 

CAZEAUX'S GREAT OBSTETRICAL TEXT-BOOK. 

A Theoretical and Practical Treatise, including the Diseases of Pregnancy 
and Parturition. By P. Cazeaux, Adjunct Professor in the Faculty of Medi- 
cine of Paris, etc. etc. Revised and Annotated by S. Tarnier, Former Clini- 
cal Chief of the Lying-in-Hospital, etc., etc. Sixth American from the Seventh 
French Edition. Translated by Wm. R. Bullock, m.d. One volume, Royal 
Octavo, over 1100 pages, with Lithographic and 175 other Illustrations on 
Wood. Price, Cloth, $6.00 ; Leather, $7.00 

M. Cazeaux's great work on Obstetrics has become classical in its character, and 
almost an Encyclopaedia in its fulness. Written expressly for the use of students of 
medicine, and those of midwifery especially, its teachings are plain and explicit, 
presenting a condensed summary of the leading principles established by the masters 
of the obstetric art, and such clear, practical directions for the management of the 
pregnant, parturient, and puerperal states, as have been sanctioned by the most 
authoritative practitioners, and confirmed by the author's own experience. Collect- 
ing his materials from the writings of the entire body of antecedent writers, carefully 
testing their correctness and value by his own daily experience, and rejecting all such 
as were falsified by the numerous cases brought under his own immediate observa- 
tion, he has formed out of them a body of doctrine, and a system of practical rules, 
which he illustrates and enforces in the clearest and most simple manner possible. 



"The edition before us is one of unquestionable ex- 
cellence. Every portion of it has undergone a thorough 
revision, and no little modification ; while copious 
and important additions have been made to nearly 
every part of it. It is well and beautifully illustrated 
by numerous wood and lithographic engravings, and 
in typographical execution will bear a favorable com- 
parison with other works of the same class." 'American 
Medical Journal. 

" The translation of Dr. Bullock is remarkably well 
done. We can recommend this work to those espe- 
cially interested in the subject treated, and can espe- 
cially recommend the American edition." — Medical 
Times and Gazette. 

" We do not hesitate to say that it is now the most 
complete and best treatise on the subject in the Eng- 
lish language."— Buffalo Medical Journal. 



" It is unquestionably a work of the highest excel- 
lence, rich in information, and perhaps fuller in details 
than any text-book with which we are acquainted. 
The author has not merely treated of every question 
which relates to the business of parturition, but he has 
done so with judgment and ability." — British and 
Fo reign Medico- Ch iru rgica I Review. 

" No work, in our estimation, bears any comparison 
to Cazeaux, in its entire perfectness ; and if we were 
called upon to rely alone on one work on accouch- 
ments, our choice would fall upon the book before us 
without any kind of hesitation." — West. Jour, of Med- 
icine and Surgery. 

" We know of no work on this all-important branch 
of our profession that we can commend to the student 
or practitioner as a safe guide befcre this." — Chicago 
Medical Journal. 



PUBLICATIONS. n 



CHARTERIS, PRACTICE OF MEDICINE. 

Hand-Book of the Practice of Medicine. By M. Charteris, m.d., 'Member 
of Hospital Staff and Professor in University of Glasgow. With Microscopic and 
other illustrations. Price $1.25 

" We have not often met with a book which can be so confidently recommended to physicians or men in general 
practice." — Lancet. 

" The style in which it is writtea is clear and at-traetive. The illustrations are a marked feature in it. It can 
be recommended as a very reliable, handy book, weli adapted for ready reference." — New Remedies. 

CHAVASSE ON CHILDREN. 

The Mental Culture and Training of Children. By Pye Henry Chavasse. 

i2mo. Price, Paper covers, .50; Cloth, $1.00 

The mental culture and training of children is of immense importance. Many 

children are so wretchedly trained, or rather not trained at all, and so mismanaged, 

that a few thoughts on this subject cannot be thrown away, even upon the most 

careful. 

CLAY ON OBSTETRIC SURGERY. Third Edition. 

A complete Hand-Book of Obstetric Surgery, with Rules for every Emergency 
and Descriptions of the more difficult as well as the every day operations. By 
Charles Clay, m.d., with numerous illustrations. From the Third London Edi- 
tion. i2mo. Price $2.00 

" It is a useful and convenient book of reference ; the illustrations are good, and the book will be found of value 
to the student and young practitioner, as well as to the skilled Obstetrician." — American Journal of Obstetrics. 

CLEVELAND, POCKET DICTIONARY. 

A Pronouncing Medical Lexicon, containing correct Pronunciation and Defi- 
nition of terms used in medicine and the collateral sciences. By C. H. Cleve- 
land, m.d. Twenty-ninth Edition. i6mo. 

Price, Cloth, 75 cents ; Tucks with Pocket, $1.00 
This is a most convenient size for the pocket, and contains all the principal words 
in use, together with rules for pronunciation, abbreviations used in prescriptions, list 
of poisons, their antidotes, etc. 

COHEN, INHALATION. Enlarged Edition. 

Inhalation, its Therapeutics and Practice, including a Description of the Ap- 
paratus Employed, etc. By J. Solis Cohen, m.d. With cases and Illustrations. 
A New Enlarged Edition. 8vo. Price $2.50 

" The book has the merit of containing much information that cannot be found elsewhere." — N. Y. Medical 
Journal. 
" One of the best treatises we have seen on this subject." — Medical Times and Gazette. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

CROUP, 

In its Relation to Tracheotomy. 8vo. Price $1.00 

CLARKE, SURGERY. 

Outlines of Surgery and Surgical Pathology, including the Diagnosis and 
Treatment of Obscure and Urgent Cases. By F. LeGross Clarke, f.r.s. 
Second Edition. 8vo. Price $2.00 

COBBOLD, PARASITES. 

A Treatise on the Entozoa of Man and Animals, including some account of 
the Ectozoa. By T. Spencer Cobbold, m.d., f.r.s. With 85 illustrations. 
8vo. Price $5.00 



12 PRESLE Y BLAKISTON'S 

COLES, THE MOUTH. Third Edition, just ready. 

Deformities of the Mouth, Congenital and Acquired, with Their Mechanical 
Treatment. By Oakley Coles, d.d.s. Third Edition. 83 Wood Engravings 
and 96 Drawings on Stone. 8vo. Price $4.50 

"Altogether we must heartily congratulate Mr. Coles on this creditable completion of a work which cannot 
but redound to his credit wherever it is known." — British Journal of Dental Science. 
" We recommend this book to the study of both surgeons and dentists." — London Lancet. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

A MANUAL OF DENTAL MECHANICS. 

Containing much information of a practical nature, upon the Materials and 
Appliances used in Mechanical Dentistry. For Practitioners and Students. 
Second Edition, with 140 Illustrations. i2mo. Price $2.00 

THE DENTAL STUDENT'S NOTE-BOOK. 

A new Edition. i6mo. Price $1.00 

CORMACK, CLINICAL STUDIES. 

Illustrated by Cases Observed in Hospital and Private Practice. By Sir 
John Rose Cormack, m.d., k.b., etc. Illustrated. 2 vols. 1,127 pp. Price $3.00 

COURTY, THE UTERUS, OVARIES, ETC. 

A Practical Treatise on Diseases of the Uterus, Ovaries, and Fallopian 
Tubes. By Prof. A. Courty, of Montpellier, France. Translated from the 
Third Edition by his pupil and assistant, Agnes McLaren, m.d., m.k.q.cp.i. 
With a Preface by J. Matthews Duncan, m.d., ll.d., f.r.s., Obstetric Physi- 
cian to Saint Bartholomew's Hospital, London. With 431 Illustrations. One 
Vol., 8vo. Price, in Handsome Cloth, $6.00 ; Full Sheep, Raised Bands, $7.00 

OUTLINE OF CONTENTS. 

#;troduction. — On the Anatomy, Physiology, and Teratology of the Organs of Generation. Part i. — 

General Survey of Uterine Diseases. Diagnosis of Uterine Diseases in General; Treatment of 

Uterine Diseases in General ; General Characteristics of Uterine Diseases. Part n. — Uterine Diseases 

in Detail. Functional Disorders; Changes of Position; Morbid States without Neoplasm; Organic 

Alterations; Diseases of the Uterine Appendages; Pelvic Hemorrhages and Peri-uterine Hsematocele; 

Cyst of the Ovary and Genito-pelvic Tumor; Sterility, etc., etc. Index. 

" Courty's work has, since its first publication, been recognized everywhere. In France, its position is 

attested by the sale of two editions, numbering, I am told, ten thousand copies, and by the appearance of 

another, the third edition. I recommend to the careful study of my professional brethren a book which has 

already been crowned by the Institute of France." — J. Matthews Duncan. 

CURLING, ON THE TESTIS. 

A Practical Treatise on the Diseases of the Testis, Spermatic Cord, and 
Scrotum. By T. B. Curling, m.d., f.r.s. Fourth Edition, Enlarged and Il- 
lustrated. 8vo. Price $5.50 

" We believe this work to be the most trustworthy that can be consulted in this Department of Surgery, 

his pages abound with valuable suggestions and cautions that mark his intimate knowledge of the 

subject." — London Practitioner. 

COOPER'S SURGICAL DICTIONARY. 

A Dictionary of Practical Surgery and Encyclopaedia of Surgical Science. 
By Samuel Cooper. New Edition, brought down to the present time. By 
Samuel A. Lane, f.r.cs., assisted by various eminent Surgeons. In two 
vols. Price $12.00 

COTTLE, ON THE HAIR. 

The Hair in Health and Disease. By E. W. Cottle, m.d. Partly from the 
notes of the late George Nayler. i8mo. Price .75 

CORFIELD, DWELLING HOUSES. 

The Sanitary Construction and Arrangement of Dwelling Houses. By W. 
H. Corfield, M.A., M.D. Enlarged Edition, with Plans and Illustrations. 
l2mo. Price $1.25 



PUB LIC A TIONS. 



COULSON, THE BLADDER. Sixth Edition. 

Diseases of the Bladder and Prostate Gland. By Walter J. Coulson, f.r.c.s. 
Sixth Edition. Revised and Enlarged, with 22 Engravings. 8vo. Price $6.40 

CRIPPS, THE RECTUM. 

Cancer of the Rectum. Its Pathology, Diagnosis and Treatment. By. W. 
Harrison Cripps, f.r.c.s. Illustrated by Plates. 8vo. Price $2.40 

DAY ON CHILDREN. Second Edition. Just Ready. 

The Diseases of Children. A Practical and Systematic Treatise for Practi- 
tioners and Students. By Wm. H. Day, m.d. Second Edition. Rev/ritten and 



Price, Cloth, $5.00; Sheep, $6.00 

" Dr. Day brings to his task a large experience, and 
evidences a very thorough knowledge of the literature, 
native and foreign, pertaining to this special branch of 
medicine. The book has been written with great care, 
and the author is a good writer. The publisher's part 
of the task has also been excellently performed." — 
Boston Medical and Surgical Journal. 



very much Enlarged. 8vo. 752 pp. 

" Believing the work well adapted to meet the wants 
of the Student as well as the Practitioner, I will recom- 
mend it to the classes of Rush Medical College." — 
DeLeskie Miller, m.d., Chicago. 

" On the whole, we must confess we are pleased with 
this book and can heartily recommend it — a recommen- 
dation which it does not appear to need, as it has 
already reached its second edition." — American Jour- 
nal of Medical Science. 

DAY ON HEADACHES. 

The Nature, Causes, and Treatment of Headaches. Third Edition. Illus- 
trated. By Wm. Henry Day, m.d. Price $1.25 

Summary of Contents. — Headache from Cerebral Anaemia, Cerebral Hypersemia, Sympathetic, Congestive, 
Dyspeptic or Bilious Headaches, Headache from Plethora, from Exhaustion, from Change in Cerebral Tissue, 
from Affections of the Periosteum, Nervous and Nervo-Hyperaemic Headache, Toxsemic, Rheumatic, Arthritic 
or Gouty Headache, Neuralgic Headache, and Headaches of Childhood, Early and Advanced Life. 

" Well worth reading. The remarks on treatment are very sensible." — Boston Medical and Surg. Journal. 

DALBY, ON THE EAR. 

The Diseases and Injuries of the Ear. By W. B. Dalby, m.d., Surgeon and 
Lecturer on Aural Surgery, St. George's Hospital. With Illustrations. i2mo. 

Price $1.50 



'A safe and readable introduction to aural surgery." 
Medical Press and Circular. 

" Dr. Dalby has presented us with a very readable 
little book, which is destined to render reuch service in 
the saving of ears." — N. Y. Medical Journal. 



"The lectures occupy 226 pages, are clearly and 
consisely written, contain a number of good illustrations, 
and are well worth the careful study of both student 
and practitioner. To aurists the work will be most 
welcome and valuable." — Specialist. 



DILLINGBERGER, WOMEN AND CHILDREN'S DIS- 
EASES. 

A Hand-Book of the Treatment of the Diseases Peculiar to Women and Chil- 
dren. By Dr. Emil Dillingberger. i2mo. Price $1.50 

" It is a mag)ium in parvo. The style is simple, clear, lucid, and free from theoretical discussion. No one will 
regret the small outlay for this volume. — Richmond and Louisville Medical Journal. 

DUNGLISON, THE PHYSICIAN'S REFERENCE BOOK. 

The Practitioner's Reference Book, containing Therapeutical and Practical 
Hints, Dietetic Rules, and General Information. By Richard J. Dunglison, 
m.d. Third Edition. 8vo. Price $3.50 

" We can heartily commend this book as one that I " The demand for a second edition so soon after the 
must prove very useful to the general practitioner." — publication of the first volume shows that this work is 
The Medical Record. | appreciated by the profession." — Canada Lancet. 

DURKEE, VENEREAL DISEASES. Sixth Edition. 

Gonorrhoea and Syphilis. By Silas Durkee, m.d. Sixth Edition. Revised 
and Enlarged, with Portrait and Eight Colored Illustrations. 8vo. Price $3.50 

" We may, finally, recommend Dr. Durkee's book as eminently practical, well written, full of excellent counsel, 
and worthy of being cors'ilted by every member of the profession. A late number of the London Medical Times 
and Gazette also speaks of the book in terms of the highest approval." — Boston Medical and Surgical Journal. 



14 PRESLE Y BLAKISTON 'S 

DAGUENET, OPHTHALMOSCOPY. 

A Manual of Ophthalmoscopy, for the Use of Students. By Dr. Daguenet. 
Translated from the French, by Dr. C. S. Jeaffreson, f.r.c.s.e. Illustrated. 
i2mo. Price $1.50 

" Its portable size, the condensed nature of its text, and the admirably systematic arrangement of its contents, 
render it extremely useful as a pocket manual for Students. — Translator' s Pre/ace. 

DOBELL, WINTER COUGH AND CATARRH. 

On Winter Cough, Catarrh, Bronchitis, Emphysema, Asthma, etc. By 
Horace Dobell, m.d., Lecturer at the Royal Hospital for Diseases of the 
Chest. Third Edition. With Colored Plates. 8vo. Price $3.50 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

ON LOSS OF WEIGHT. Revised Edition. 

Blood Spitting and Lung Disease. Colored Frontispiece of Lung. Tabular 
Map, etc. Second Edition Enlarged. 8vo. Price $4.00 

DOMVILLE, ON NURSING. 

A Manual for Hospital Nurses and others engaged in attending to the sick. 
4th Edition. With Recipes for Sick Room Cookery, etc. Price .75 

DRUITT'S MODERN SURGERY. Eleventh Edition. 

The Surgeon's Vade Mecum ; a Manual of Modern Surgery. By Robert 
Druitt, f.r.c.s. Eleventh Enlarged Edition, with 369 Illustrations. 864 pp. 
1878. Price #5.00 

This is a most complete, accurate, and trustworthy Hand, or Text-Book of Sur- 
gery. Unrivaled as a book for the Student. Fully illustrated, and brought up to 
the present state of the science. In use in many Medical Colleges. 

DULLES, ACCIDENTS. 

What to do First, in Accidents and Poisoning. By C. W. Dulles, m.d. Il- 
lustrated. i6mo. Price .50 

So plain and sensible that it ought to be introduced 



" Its usefulness entitles it to a wide and permanent 
circulation." — Boston Gazette. 

" A complete guide for sudden emergencies. — Phila- 
delphia Ledger. 



into every female seminary. — Evening Chronicle, 
Pittsburgh. 



EDWARDS, BRIGHT'S DISEASE. New Edition. 

How a Person Affected with Bright' s Disease Ought to Live. By Jos. F. Ed- 
wards, m.d. Second Edition. i2mo. Price .75 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

DYSPEPSIA. Just Ready. 

How to Avoid It. i2mo. .75 

Contents.— Chap. 1.— Food. 11. Digestion. 111. How to Cook Food. iv. How and What We Ought to Eat. 

CONSTIPATION. New Edition. 

Plainly Treated and Relieved Without the Use of Drugs. Second Edition. 
i2mo. Price .75 

MALARIA. 

Malaria : What It Means ; How to Escape It ; Its Symptoms ; When and 
Where to Look for It. i2mo. Price .75 

VACCINATION AND SMALL-POX. 

Showing the Reasons in favor of Vaccination, and the Fallacy of the Argu- 
ments Advanced against it, with Hints on the Management and Care of SmaH- 
Pox patients. i6mo. Price .50 

These are invaluable little treatises upon subjects that enter painfully into the 
life experiences of a large majority of the human family. Dr. Edwards shows not 
only how they may be avoided, but in plain and simple language he tells those 
already afflicted with them how they may find relief. 



PUB LIC A TIONS. 



*5 



EKIN, WATER ANALYSIS. 

Potable Water. How to Form a Judgment on the Suitableness of Water for 
Drinking Purposes. By Charles Ekin. Second Edition. i2mo. Price .75 



ELLIS, DISEASES OF CHILDREN. 

A Practical Manual of the Diseases of Children, with a Formulary. By Ed- 
ward Ellis, m.d. Late Physician to the Victoria Hospital for Children, 



London. Fourth Edition Enlarged. Now Ready. 



Price $3.00 



BY SAME AUTHOR. 

WHAT EVERY MOTHER SHOULD KNOW. 

i2mo. Price .75 

" It is only too true that our children have to dodge through the early part of life as through a labyrinth. We 
must be thankful to meet with such a sensible guide for them as Dr. Ellis." — Pall Mall Gazette. 



FENNER, ON VISION. 

Vision ; Its Optical Defects, the Adaptation of Spectacles, Defects of Accommo- 
dation, etc. By C. S. Fenner, m.d. With Test Types and 74 Illustrations. 



Second Edition, Revised and Enlarged. 8vo. 



Price $3.50 



FENWICK, THE PRACTICE OF MEDICINE. 

Outlines of the Practice of Medicine. With Appropriate Formulas and Illus- 
trations. By Samuel Fenwick, m.d., Physician to the London Hospital. i2mo. 

Price $1.25 

" This little work displays a sound judgment in the arrangement of its subject matter, and an intimate acquaint- 
ance with the practice of medicine possessed by but few writers, and should have been elaborated into a more 
comprehensive work. Of all the hand-books we have seen, this is certainly one of the best." — Medical Herald. 

" It is an eminently practical little treatise, pervaded with much common sense, and will doubtless be found 
useful, particularly by advanced students." — Boston Medical and Surgical Journal. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

ON THE STOMACH. 

The Morbid State of the Stomach and Duodenum, and Their Relations to 
Diseases of Other Organs. With 10 Plates. 8vo. Price $4.25 

Atrophy of the Stomach and Its Effect on the Nervous Affections of the Digest- 
ive Organs. 8vo. Price $3.20 



FOTHERGILL, ON THE HEART. Second Edition. 

The Heart and Its Diseases. With Their Treatment. Including the Gouty 
Heart. By J. Milner Fothergill, m.d., Associate Fellow of the College of 
Physicians of Philadelphia. Second Edition, Entirely Re-written. Octavo. 

Price $3.50 



" It is the best, as well as the most recent work on 
the subject in the English language." — Medical Press 
and Circular . 

" The most interesting chapter is undoubtedly that 
on the gouty heart, a subject which Dr. Fothergill has 
specially studied, and on which he entertains views 
such as are likely, we think, to be generally accepted 
by clinical physicians, although they have not before 
been stated, so far as we are aware, with the same 
breadth of view and extended illustration."— British 
Medical Journal. 



" To many an earnest student it will prove a right in 
darkness ; to many a practitioner cast down with a 
sense of his powerlessness to cope with the rout and 
demoralization of Nature's forces, a present help in 
time of trouble." — Philadelphia Medical Times. 

" The work throughout is a masterpiece of graphie, 
lucid writing, full of good, sound teaching, which will 
be appreciated alike by the practitioner and the stu- 
dent." — Students' Journal. 



FULTON, ON PHYSIOLOGY. 

A Text-Book of Physiology. By J. Fulton, m.d., Professor at Trinity 
Medical College, Toronto. Second Edition, Illustrated and Revised. 8vo. 

Price $4.00 



16 PRESLEY BLAKISTON'S 



FLOWER, DIAGRAMS OF THE NERVES. 

Diagrams of the Nerves of the Human Body. Exhibiting their Origin, 
Divisions, and Connections, with their Distribution to the various Regions of the 
Cutaneous Surface, and to all the Muscles. By William H. Flower, f.r.c.s., 
F.R.S., Hunterian Professor of Comparative Anatomy, and Conservator of the 
Museum of the Royal College of Surgeons. Third Edition, thoroughly revised. 
With six Large Folio Maps, or Diagrams. Royal Quarto. Price $3.50 

" Admirably arranged, and will be of incalculable aid to tbe student of anatomy. Each of the large and 
beautiful plates is accompanied with explanatory text." — N. Y. Medical Record. 

"The nerves and ganglia are clearly represented. The impressions are well made, and no doubt the diagrams 
will prove useful." — Medical and Surgical Reporter. 

FLAGG, PLASTIC FILLING. 

Plastics and Plastic Filling; As Pertaining to the Filling of all Cavities of De- 
cay in Teeth below Medium in Structure, and to Difficult and Inaccessible 
Cavities in Teeth of all Grades of Structure. With some beautifully executed 
Illustrations. By J. Foster Flagg, d.d.s., Professor of Dental Pathology and 
Therapeutics in Philadelphia Dental College. Octavo. Price $3.00 

Contents. — Introductory. Article i. Plastic Filling. 2. Amalgam. 3. Amalgam continued. 4. Amalgam 
continued. 5. Attributes of Metals used for Amalgam Alloys. 6. The Making of Amalgam Alloys. 7. Tests 
for Amalgam. 8. Preparation of Cavities. 9. The Making of Amalgam. 10. Instrument for the Insertion of 
Amalgam Fillings. 11. The Insertion of Amalgam Fillings. 12. General Considerations Pertaining to Amalgam. 
13. Gutta-percha. 14. Oxy-chloride of Zinc. 15. Oxy-sulphate of Zinc. 16. Zinc Phosphate. 17. Temporary 
Stopping. 18. Technicalities. Conclusion. 

FOSTER, CLINICAL MEDICINE. 

Lectures and Essays on Clinical Medicine. By Balthazar Foster, m.d. 
Illustrated. 8vo. Price $^.oo 



"No one can peruse the thoughtful comments of our 
author upon every subject he considers, without feeling 
himself a wiser man for his pains." — N. Y. Medical 
Journal. 



u It is the record of honest work, such as Dr. Foster 
may be proud of; we can recommend it to the profession; 
it may be read with profit and advantage by both prac- 
titioner and student. — Edinburgh Medical Journal. 



FOX, ATLAS OF SKIN DISEASES.. 

Complete in Eighteen Parts, each containing Four Chromo-Lithographic Plates, 
with Descriptive Text and Notes upon Treatment. In all 72 large colored Plates. 
By Tilbury Fox, m.d., f.r.c.p., Physician to the Department for Skin Diseases 
in University College Hospital. Folio Size. 

Price $1.00 each, or complete, bound in cloth, $20.00 

No Atlas of Skin Diseases has been issued in this country for many years, and no 
complete work of the kind is now procurable by the Profession. This one, brought 
out under the editorial supervision and care of Dr. Tilbury Fox (the most distin- 
guished writer on Cutaneous Medicine now in the English language), is partly based 
upon the classical work of Willan and Bateman (now entirely out of print), but com- 
pletely remodeled, so as to represent fully the Dermatology of the present day. 

" Preference will be given to this work over Hebra; not simply, however, because it is a home production, but 
by reason of the manner of its execution, the excellent delineation of disease, and the natural coloring of the plates. 

. . The letter-press is entirely new. In the accuracy of the latter the subscriber may have the fullest confi- 
dence, since it is from the pen of Dr. Tilbury J ox ."—British and Foreign Medico- Chirurgical Review. 

FRANKLAND, WATER ANALYSIS. 

Water Analysis, For Sanitary Purposes, with Hints for the Interpretation of 
Results. By E. Frankland, m.d., f.r.s. Illustrated. i2mo. Price $1.00 

" The author's world-wide reputation will commend 
this manual to all sanitarians, and they will not be dis- 
appointed in finding all the essentials of the important 
subject of which it treats."— The Sanitarian. 



" The work is one which physicians practicing in 
the country and in villages and towns remote from 
medical centres cannot afford to be without."— Medical 
and Surgical Reporter. 



BY SAME AUTHOR. 

CHEMISTRY. 

How to Teach Chemistry; being Six Lectures to Science Teachers. Edited 
by G. George Chaloner, f.c.s. Illustrated. i2mo. Price $1.25 



PUBLICA TIONS. 17 



FOX, WATER, AIR AND FOOD. 

Sanitary Examinations of Water, Air and Food. By Cornelius B. Fox, 
m.d. 94 Engravings. 8vo. Price $4.00 

GALLABIN, DISEASES OF WOMEN. 

The Student's Guide to the Diseases of Women. By A. Lewis Gallabin, m.a., 
m.d., f.r.c.p. Illustrated with 63 Engravings. i2mo. Price $1.25 

"Among all the various works on diseases of women i " Its style is clear, elegant, and-concise. It contains 



with which we are acquainted, there is none which so 
nearly approaches the perfection of what a student's 
text-book should be . . . The work is well illustrated." 
— Students' Journal. 

" Though the book is a small one and the subject ex- 
tensive, yet so admirable is the style of the writer, and 
so careful his selection of words, that each disease is 
thoroughly treated of." — Philadelphia Medical Times. 



a great amount of information ; indeed, we do not think 
the student or practitioner will find any book which 
will convey to him in so small a compass so much accu- 
rate knowlsdge about the pathology and diagnosis of 
the diseases peculiar to women." — Medical Times and 
Gazette. 



GROSS, BIOGRAPHY OF JOHN HUNTER. 

John Hunter and His Pupils. By S. D. Gross, m.d., Professor of Surgery in 
Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. With a beautifully executed full length 
Portrait of the Author in his Study. A Handsome Octavo volume. Bound in 
Beveled Cloth. Price $1.50 

" It is refreshing to read the story of a life so fully devoted to science, and the reader will readily appreciate 
Professor Gross's enthusiasm for his subject, which led him to extend what was originally intended for an essay to 
its present size. 

" The phototype of Sharp's well-known engraving of Sir Joshua Reynold's portrait is an excellent reproduction, 
and forms a fitting and handsome frontispiece. 

" The volume will prove an ornament to the study table, where it will be a constant incentive to whatever is 
best and noblest in a noble profession." — Boston Med. and Surgical Journal. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

AMERICAN MEDICAL MEN. 

American Medical Biography of the Nineteenth Century, with portrait of Dr. 
Benjamin Rush. Large 8vo. 

GANT, A SYSTEM OF SURGERY. Enlarged Edition. 

The Science and Practice of Surgery, including Special Chapters by different 
Authors. By Frederick James Gant, f.r.c.s., Senior Surgeon to the Royal 
Free Hospital. Second Edition, rewritten and much enlarged throughout. 
Illustrated by 969 wood engravings. In two Octavo volumes. 

Price, Cloth $11.00; Leather $13.00 

" This new and magnificent work on surgery sup- 
plies all that can be required, whether for the most com- 
plete study or for constant reference in practice." — 
London Medical Press and Circular. 

" The reader has the advantage of mature experience 
in treating of special subjects, that are either omitted 
or very lightly referred to in ordinary works on sur- - 
gery." — London Lancet. 



" After the most patient analysis our limited time 
has permitted, we feel compelled to say that this book 
is a valuable and comprehensive addition to the surgical 
literature of the profession and a monument to the care- 
ful, conscientious and painstaking industry of the 
author." — Cincinnati Lancet and Observer. 



BY SAME AUTHOR. 

ON THE BLADDER AND PROSTATE. 

Diseases of the Bladder and Prostate Gland and Urethra, including a Practical: 
View of Urinary Diseases, Deposits and Calculi. Fourth Edition, Revised and 
Enlarged, with New Illustrations. i2mo. Price $3.00 

GIBBES, STUDENT'S PATHOLOGY. 

Practical Histology and Pathology. By Heneage Gibbes, m.b. izmo; 
Cloth. Price $1.00 

Chap. i. Introduction. 2. On Preparing Tissues for Examination. 3. On Cutting Sections. 4. On Staining. 
5. On Double Staining. 6. On Mounting. 7. Method of Obtaining Animal Tissues, etc. Practical Histology, 
Pathology, Memoranda and Formulae. 

" This excellent little work is admirably adapted to fulfill the purpose for which it has been written. It is 
short, clear, and eminently practical. The author is evidently an accomplished histologist, and his book conveys 
the impression that it is based upon his own personal experience." — The Lo7idon Medical Record. 



PRESLEY BLAKISTON'S 



GODLEE'S ATLAS OF HUMAN ANATOMY. 

Illustrating most of the Ordinary Dissections and many not usually practiced 
by the Student. Accompanied by References and an Explanatory Text. Com- 
plete. Folio Size. 48 Colored Plates. By Rickman John Godlee, m.d., 
f.r.c.s. Forming a large Folio Volume, with References, and an Octavo 
Volume of Letter-press. 

Price of the two Volumes, Atlas and Letter-press, Cloth, $20.00 



" It is likely to prqve as useful to the physician and 
surgeon as to the anatomist." — Medical Times and 
Gazette. 



" The explanatory text is concise, well written, and 
contains many valuable suggestions for the surgeon." 
— London Lancet. 



GOWERS, SPINAL CORD. 

Diagnosis of Diseases of the Spinal Cord. With Colored Plates and Engrav- 
ings. A Second Edition. Revised and Enlarged. By William R. Gowers, 
m.d., Assistant Professor Clinical Medicine, University College, London. 8vo. 
Second Edition. Price $1.50 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

OPHTHALMOSCOPY. 

A Manual and Atlas of Medical Ophthalmoscopy. With 16 Colored Auto- 
type and Lithographic Plates and 26 Wood Cuts, comprising 112 Original Illus- 
trations of the Changes in the Eye in Diseases of the Brain, Kidneys, etc. 8vo. 

Price $6.00 

EPILEPSY AND ITS TREATMENT. 

Epilepsy and other Chronic Convulsive Diseases : Their Causes, Symptoms, 
and Treatment. Octavo. Just Ready. Price, Cloth, $4.00 

NERVOUS DISEASES. 

A Manual of Diseases of the Nervous System, for Practitioners and Students. 

I? 1 Press. 

" Dr. Gowers, while profoundly conversant with the literature of his subject, has not allowed himself to be 
influenced to an undue extent by the writings of others, but while fairly stating their views, where this is neces- 
sary, he at the same time brings to bear upon them the experience derived from his own extensive observations, 
and when, consequently, they receive confirmation or not atjiis hands, they are all the more valuable as being the 
outcome of the most searching and unbiased criticism. It would be impossible, within the limits of a short re- 
view, to convey an adequate idea of the extent of Dr. Gowers' work." — Edinburgh Medical Journal. 

GREENHOW, BRONCHITIS. 

On Chronic Bronchitis, especially as connected with Gout, Emphysema, and 
Diseases of the Heart. By E. Headlam Greenhow, m.d. i2mo. Price $1.50 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

ADDISON'S DISEASE. 

Being the Croonian Lectures, delivered before the Royal College of Physi- 
cians, London. Revised and Illustrated by Plates and Reports of Cases. 8vo. 

Price $3.00 

"The book forms a most interesting and valuable monograph, comprehensive and exhaustive." — British 
Medical Journal. 

GLISAN, TEXT-BOOK OF MODERN MIDWIFERY. 

A Text-Book of Modern Midwifery. By Rodney Glisan, m.d., Emeritus 
Professor of Midwifery and Diseases of Women and Children in the Medical 
Department of Willamette University, Portland, Oregon, and Late President 
of the Oregon State Medical Society. With 129 Illustrations. One Volume, 
octavo, 624 pp. Price, in Cloth $4.00 ; in Leather $5-oo 

GILL, ON INDIGESTION. Third Edition. . 

Indigestion ; What It Is ; What It Leads To ; and a New Method of Treating 
It. By John Beadnell Gill, m.d. Third Edition. i2mo. 



PUBLICATIONS. 19 



HABERSHON, ON THE STOMACH. 

On Diseases of the Stomach — The Varieties of Dyspepsia — Their Diagnosis 
and Treatment. By S. O. Habershon, m.d., f.r.c.p., Senior Physician to, and 
Late Lecturer on, the Principles and Practice of Medicine at Guy's Hospital. 
Third Edition, Revised. Crown 8vo. Price $1.25 

"As an expression of the results of long personal experience in both hospital and private practice, conveyed 
in agreeable though not always perspicuous diction, this contribution of Dr. Habershon's has special value of its 
own, and is so far entitled to the favorable consideration of the practitioner, as is already testified by a demand 
for a third edition." — American yournal of Medical Sciences. 

HALE, ON CHILDREN. 

The Management of Children in Health and Disease. A Book for Mothers. 
By Mrs. Amie M. Hale, m.d. Abounding in valuable information and com- 
mon sense advice. New Enlarged Edition. i2mo. Price .75 

" We shall use our influence in the introduction of this work to families under our care, and we urge the pro- 
fession generally to follow our example." — Buffalo Medical and Surgical yournal. 

HUGHES, QUIZ-BOOK OF PRACTICE. 

A Compend of the Practice of Medicine, as used in the Quiz-Rooms and Ex- 
aminations in the principal Medical Colleges. By Daniel E. Hughes, m.d., 
Demonstrator of Clinical Medicine at Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. 
In two parts. Quiz-Compend Series Nos. 2 and 3. i2mo. Cloth. Price, each, $1.00 

HARDWICKE, MEDICAL EDUCATION. 

Medical Education and Practice in All Parts of the World. Containing 
Regulations for Graduation at the Various Universities throughout the World. 
By Herbert Junius Hardwicke, m.d., m.r.c.p. 8vo.: Price $3.00 

" Dr. Hardwicke's book will prove a valuable source of information to those who may desire to know the 
conditions upon which medical practice is or may be pursued in any or every country of the world, even to the 
lemotest corners of the earth. The work has been compiled with great care, and must have required "a vast 
amount of labor and perseverance on the part of its author." — Dublin Medical yournal. 

HARLEY, ON THE LIVER. Illustrated. 

On Diseases of the Liver, with or without Jaundice. Diagnosis and Treat- 
ment. By George Harley, m.d. Author of the Urine and Its Derangements. 
With Colored Plates and Numerous Illustrations. Royal Octavo. 

Price, Cloth, $5.00 ; Leather, $6.00. 

HAYDEN, ON THE HEART. 

The Diseases of the Heart and Aorta. By Thomas Hayden, m.d. With 81 
Illustrations. 2 vols. 1232 pp. 8vo. Price $6.00 

"The author evidently has had a very wide and well used experience in that of which he writes ; is well versed 
in modern physiology and pathology, and holds a fluent pen, consequently the book is an excellent one, and as 
the teachings of the text are abundantly illustrated by the reports of one. hundred and fifty cases, Dr. Hayden's 
effort will probably attain the popularity it deserves." — Philadelphia Medical Times. 

"There is not an unnecessary page in Dr. Hayden's work." — N. Y. Medical Record. 

HOLDEN, HUMAN OSTEOLOGY. Sixth Edition. 

Comprising a Description of the Bones, with Colored Delineations of the At- 
tachments of the Muscles. The General and Microscopical Structure of Bone 
and its Development. By the Author and A. Doran, f.r.c.s., with Lithographic 
Plates, etc. By Luther Holden, f.r.c.s. Numerous Illustrations. Sixth 
Edition, carefully Revised. Price $6.00 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

ANATOMY. 

Manual of Dissections of the Human Body. Fourth London Edition. With 
170 Illustrations. Price $5.50 

LANDMARKS. 

Landmarks, Medical and Surgical. Third London Edition. Revised and 
Enlarged. . Price $1.00 

" Mr. Holden is the happy possessor of the faculty of writing interesting works on Anatomy. A part of the 
charm consists in the frequent references to practical points, and in the explanation of the advantages aw' objects 
of details of structures." — Boston Medical and Surgical yournal. 



to PRESLE Y BLAKISTON '6* 

HEATH'S OPERATIVE SURGERY. 

A Course of Operative Surgery, consisting of a Series of Plates, each plate 
containing Numerous Figures, Drawn from Nature by the Celebrated Anatomi- 
cal Artist, M. Leveille, of Paris, Engraved on Steel and Colored by Hand, 
under his immediate superintendence, with Descriptive Text of Each Operation'. 
By Christopher Heath, f.r.c.s., Surgeon to University College Hospital, and 
Holme Professor of Clinical Surgery in University College, London. One Large 
Quarto Volume. p rice $14.00 

The author has embodied in this work the experience gained by him during 
twenty years of surgical teaching. It comprises all the operations that are required 
in ordinary surgical practice. He has selected for illustration and description those 
methods which appear to give the best results in practice, referring to the errors 
likely to occur and the best methods of avoiding them. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

THE STUDENT'S GUIDE TO SURGICAL DIAGNOSIS. 

i2mo. Price $1.25 

" Mr. Heath is so well known, both as a practical surgeon, teacher and writer, that anything from his pen re- 
quires no introduction from the hands of reviewers, and scarcely any notice but the announcement of the fact that 
he has written a book." — Medical Record. 

A MANUAL OF MINOR SURGERY AND BANDAGING. 

Sixth Edition, Revised and Enlarged. With 115 Illustrations. i2mo. 

Price $2.00 

"This excellent work should not be termed a ' Minor ' Surgery, but it really consists of the sum and substance 
of Practical surgery. We would not exchange it for any book in our possession." — Southern Clinic. 

HEATH'S PRACTICAL ANATOMY. Fifth London Edition. 

Practical Anatomy. A Manual of Dissections. Fifth London Edition. 24 
Colored Plates, and nearly 300 other Illustrations. Just Ready. Price $5.00 

INJURIES AND DISEASES OF THE JAWS. 

The Jacksonian Prize Essay of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, 
1867. Second Edition, Revised, with over 150 Illustrations. Octavo. 

Price $4.25 
HOOD, ON GOUT AND RHEUMATISM. 

A Treatise on Gout, Rheumatism, and the Allied Affections. Their Treat- 
ment, Complications, and Prevention. By Peter Hood, m.d. Second Edi- 
tion, Revised and Enlarged. With some Considerations on Longevity. Octavo. 

Price $3.50 

" The Observations on Treatment are specially to be commended." — London Lancet. 

HOLDEN, THE SPHYGMOGRAPH. 

The Sphygmograph. Its Physiological and Pathological Indications. By 
Edgar Holden, m.d. Illustrated by Three Hundred Engravings on Wood. 
8vo. Pnce # 2 -°° 

HOLMES, THE LARYNGOSCOPE. 

A Guide to the Use of the Laryngoscope in General Practice. By Gordon 
Holmes, m.d., Physician to the Throat and Ear Infirmary. i2mo. Price $1.00 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

VOCAL PHYSIOLOGY. 

Vocal Physiology and Hygiene. With reference to the Cultivation and 
Preservation of the Voice. Illustrated. i2mo. Price $2.00 

HOFF, ON HEMATURIA. 

Hematuria as a Symptom of the Diseases of the Genito-Unnary Organs. By 
O. Hoff, m.d. Illustrated. i2mo. Pnce -75 



PUBLICATIONS. 21 

HUNTER, MECHANICAL DENTISTRY. 

A Practical Treatise on the Construction of the Various kinds of Artificial 
Dentures, with Formulae, Receipts, etc. By Charles Hunter, d.d.s. 100 
Illustrations. i2mo. Price $2.25 

" It is the outcome of his own experience of some twenty years as a Mechanical Dentist, and contains, moreover, 
much derived from practical knowledge of other dentists. The value of the book is also much added to by illus- 
trations. It will be very useful to the Dental Student, and to all Mechanical Dentists." — London Medical Times 
*nd Gazette. 

HUTCHINSON'S ILLUSTRATIONS OF CLINICAL SUR- 
GERY. First Volume Complete. 

Consisting of Plates, Photographs, Woodcuts, Diagrams, etc. Illustrating 
Surgical Diseases, Symptoms, and Accidents; also Operations and other 
Methods of Treatment. With Descriptive Letter-press. By Jonathan Hutch- 
inson, F.R.C.S., Senior Surgeon to the London Hospital, Surgeon to the Moor- 
fields Ophthalmic Hospital, and to the Hospital for Diseases of the Skin, Black- 
friars. ' In Quarterly Fasciculi. Imperial 4to. Volume 1. (Ten Fasciculi) bound 
complete in itself. Price $25.00. Parts Eleven, Twelve, Thirteen, and Fourteen 
of Volume 2, Now Ready. Each $2.50 

HEWITT, DISEASES OF WOMEN. Fourth Edition. 

The Diagnosis, Pathology, and Treatment of Diseases of Women, Including 
the Diagnosis of Pregnancy. Founded on a Course of Lectures Delivered at St. 
Mary's Hospital Medical School. By Graily Hewitt, m.d., Lond., m.r.c.p., 
Physician to the British Lying-in Hospital ; Lecturer on Midwifery and Diseases 
of Women and Children at St. Mary's Hospital Medical School; Honorary 
Secretary to the Obstetrical Society of London, etc. The Fourth American 
Edition. Revised and Enlarged, with New Illustrations. Octavo. 

Price, Paper, $1.50; Cloth, $2.50 

" Readers of the former editions will not require to 
be told that the additions now made are of the highest 
possible excellence." — Times and Gazette. 

" It is one of the most useful, practical, and compre- 
hensive works upon the subject in the English language, 
a true guide to the student, and an invaluable means of 
reference for the teacher."— N. Y. Medical Record. 



" The excellent work of Dr. Hewitt presents — in a 
form well adapted to conduct the student to a knowledge 
of the Diseases of Women, and to assist the young 
practitioner in his study of these diseases at the bedside 
of the patient — a very full and clear exposition of the 
views entertained by the most authoritative teachers as 
to their pathological treatment and their correct Diag- 
nosis."— Amer. Med. yournal. 



HAY, SARCOMATOUS TUMOR. 

History of a Case of Recurring Sarcomatous Tumor of the Orbit in a Child. 
By Thomas Hay, m.d. Illustrated. Paper. Price .50 

HEWSON, EARTH IN SURGERY. 

Earth as a Topical Application in Surgery, Being a Full Exposition of its Use 
in Cases Requiring Topical Applications. By Addinell Hewson, m.d. Illus- 
trated. 8vo. Price $2.50 

HODGE, ON ABORTION. 

On Foeticide or Criminal Abortion. By Hugh L. Hodge, m.d. 

Price, Paper, .30; Cloth, .50 
HODGE, CASE-BOOK. 

Note-Book for Cases of Ovarian Tumors. By H. Lennox Hodge, m.d. With 
Diagrams. Price, Paper, .50 

HIGGINS, DISEASES OF THE EYE. Now Ready. 

A Hand-Book of Ophthalmic Practice. By Charles Higgins, f.r.c.s. 
Ophthalmic Assistant Surgeon at Guy's Hospital. Second Edition. i6mo. 

Price .50 

Contents. — Section i. Discharge from the Eyes. n. Intolerance of Light, in. Iriti3 and Glaucoma, rv. 
Diseases of the Eyelids, v. Watering of the Eye. vi. Acuteness of Vision, Field of Vision, Anomalies of Re- 
fraction, Astigmatism, Accommodation, Presbyopia, vn. Disturbance of Vision, Use of the Ophthalmoscope, 
Normal and Morbid Appearances, vm. Injuries. 

"We have rarely seen so much important information condensed in so short a space." — American Medical 
Journal. 



22 PRESLEY BLAKISTON'S 

HARRIS, THE PRACTICE OF DENTISTRY. Tenth Edition. 

The Principles and Practice of Dentistry. Tenth Revised Edition. In great 
part Rewritten, Rearranged, and with many new and important Illustrations. 
By Chapin A. Harris, m.d., d.d.s. Edited by P. H. Austen, m.d., Professor 
of Dental Science and Mechanism in the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery. 
With nearly 400 Illustrations. Royal Octavo. Price, Cloth, $6. 50 ; Leather, $7 . 50 

This new edition of Dr. Harris' work has been thoroughly revised in all its parts, 
more so than any previous edition. So great have been the advances in many 
branches of dentistry that it was found necessary to rewrite the articles or subjects, 
and this has been done in the most efficient manner by Professor Austen, for many 
years an associate and friend of Dr. Harris, assisted by Professor Gorgas and Thomas 
S. Latimer, m.d. The publishers feel assured that it will now be found the most 
complete text-book for the student, and guide for the practitioner in the English 
language. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

MEDICAL AND DENTAL DICTIONARY. Fourth Edition. 

A Dictionary of Medical Terminology, Dental Surgery, and the Collateral 
Sciences. Fourth Edition, Carefully Revised and Enlarged. By Ferdinand 
J. S. Gorgas, m.d., d.d.s., Professor of Dental Surgery in the Baltimore College, 
etc. Royal Octavo. Price, Cloth, $6.50; Leather, $7.50 

This Dictionary, having passed through three editions, and been for some time 
out of print, has been again carefully revised by F. J. S. Gorgas, M.D., Dr. Harris' 
successor as Professor of Dental Surgery in the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery. 
In his preface to this new edition, the editor says : — 

" The object of the reviser has been to bring the book thoroughly up to the pres- 
ent requirements of the profession, the Medical portion having been as carefully re- 
vised and added to as that devoted more especially to Dental Science, while a 
number of obsolete terms and methods have been omitted. In nearly every one of 
the seven hundred and forty -three pages of the former edition corrections and addi- 
tions have been made, and many new processes, terms and appliances described, 
some of which are not found in any other work published." 

HANDY, ANATOMY. 

Text-Book of Anatomy and Guide to Dissections. For the Use of Students. 
By W. R. Handy, m.d. 312 Illustrations. Price $3.00 

HILLIER, DISEASES OF CHILDREN. 

A Clinical Treatise on the Diseases of Children. By Thomas Hillier, m.d. 
8vo. Price $2.00 

HUFELAND, LONG LIFE. 

The Art of Prolonging Life. By C. W. Hufeland. Edited by Erasmus 
Wilson, m.d. i2mo. Price $1.00 

" We wish all doctors and all their intelligent clients would read it, for surely its perusai would be attended 
with pleasure and benefit." — American Practitioner . 

" It certainly should be in the library of every physician."— Medical Brief. 

HUNTER, PORTRAIT OF. 

Portrait of John Hunter. From Sharp's well-known Engraving ; a copy of 
Sir Joshua Reynold's Portrait. For Framing. Large size, 9x11; sheet 16 x 20. 
Price, in the Sheet, sent free by mail, 50 cents ; or, Handsomely Framed f 

Price $2.00 



PUBLICATIONS. 23 



HEADLAND, THE ACTION OF MEDICINES. Ninth Edition. 

On the Action of Medicines in the System. By F. W. Headland, m.d. 
Ninth American Edition, Revised and Enlarged. 8vo. Price $3.00 

" It displays in every page the evidence of extensive knowledge and of sound reasoning ; it will be useful alike 
to those who are just commencing their studies, and to those who are engaged in the active pursuits of pro- 
fessional life." — Medical Times. 

" The very favorable opinion which we were amongst the first to pronounce upon this essay has been fully 
confirmed by the general voice of the profession, and Dr. Headland may now be congratulated on having pro- 
duced a treatise which has been weighed in the balance, and found worthy of being ranked with our standard 
medical works." — London Lancet. 

JAMES, SORE THROAT. 

On Sore Throat, Its Nature, Varieties and Treatment, Including its Con- 
nection with other Diseases. By Prosser James, m.r.c.p. Fourth Edition, 
Revised and Enlarged. With Colored Plates and Numerous Wood-cuts. i2mo. 

Price $1.25 

" We can confidently recommend his therapeutic teachings as well worthy of the careful consideration of the 
Profession, for they set forth the practice of an enthusiastic worker, whose special experience has been large and 
lengthened." — British Medical "Journal. 

" The practitioner who buys Dr. James' unpretending little book will provide himself with a wise and practical 
clinical commentary, and with a well arranged digest of long and varied experience." — Westminster Review. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

LARYNGOSCOPY AND RHINOSCOPY. 

Including the Diagnosis of Diseases of the Throat and Nose. Third Edition. 
With Colored Plates. i8mo. Price $2.00. 

" It gives in a succinct form the approved methods of examination and treatment of diseases of the nose, throat, 
and larynx. The plan pursued is one well adapted to the needs of the general practitioner." — American Medical 
Journal. 

JONES, AURAL ATLAS. 

An Atlas of Diseases of the Membrana Tympani. Being a Series of Colored 
Plates, containing 62 Figures. With appropriate Letter-press and Explanatory 
Text. By H. Macnaughton Jones, m.d., Surgeon to the Cork Ophthalmic and 
Aural Hospital. 4*0. Price $4.00. 

" The cases are well selected, the drawings executed from life, highly artistic and very conscientious, and the 
commentaries indicate familiarity with the subject and good judgment in dealing with it." — British Medical 
Journal. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

AURAL SURGERY. 

A Practical Hand-book on Aural Surgery. Illustrated. Second Edition, Re- 
vised and Enlarged, with new Wood Engravings. i2mo. Cloth. Price $2.75 

JONES, SIEVEKING AND PAYNE, PATHOLOGICAL AN- 
ATOMY. 

A Manual of Pathological Anatomy. By C. Handfield Jones, m.d., and 
Edward H. Sieveking, m.d., Physician to St. Mary's Hospital. A New En- 
larged Edition. Edited by J. F. Payne, m.d., Lecturer on Morbid Anatomy at 
St. Thomas' Hospital. With Numerous Illustrations. Demi 8vo. Price $5.50. 

JONES, ON SIGHT AND HEARING. 

The Defects of Sight and Hearing, their Nature, Causes, and Prevention. By 
T. Wharton Jones, m.d. Second Edition. i6mo. Price .50. 

KIRBY, ON PHOSPHORUS. Fifth Edition. 

Phosphorus as a Remedy for Functional Diseases of the Nervous System. 
By E. A. Kirby, m.d. Fifth Edition. 8vo. Price $1.00 

KOLLMEYER, KEY TO CHEMISTRY. 

Chemia Coartata, or Key to Modern Chemistry. By A. H. Kollmeyer, m.d. 
With Numerous Tables, Tests, etc. Price $2.25 

KIRKE, PHYSIOLOGY. Revised and Enlarged. 

A Hand-book of Physiology. By Kirke. Tenth London Edition. By W. 
Morrant Baker, m.d. 420 Illustrations. Now Ready. Price $5.00 

" This is undoubtedly the best work for students on Physiology extant." — Cincinnati Med. News. 



24 PRESLE Y BLAKISTON 'S 



KANE, THE OPIUM, MORPHINE AND SIMILAR HABITS. 

Drugs that Enslave. The Opium, Morphine, Chloral, Hashisch and Similar 
Habits. By H. H. Kane, m.d., of New York. With Illustrations. Price $1.50 

"It contains a large amount of information collected with much labor and presented in a systematic manner. 
The subject of the chloral habit has not been investigated by any one, we believe, so thoroughly as Dy Dr. Kane." 
— Medical Record. 

" It deserves to be read by those who feel an interest in discouraging the use of these dangerous drugs. The 
book is embellished by an excellent phototype frontispiece of Laocoon." — American Journal of Pharmacy. 

" A work of more than ordinary ability and careful research. . . . For the first time, reliable statistics on 
the use of chloral are classified and published, . . . and it is shown that the use of chloral causes a more 
complete and rapid ruin of mind and body than either opium or morphine." — Druggists' Circular and Gazette. 

KIDD, THERAPEUTICS. 

The Laws of Therapeutics ; or, the Science and Art of Medicine. By Joseph 
Kidd, m.d. i2mo. Cloth. Price $1.25. 

Dr. Joseph Kidd, who, "by the way, was Lord Beaconsfield's medical adviser, and 
an eminent physician of the regular school, briefly but clearly sketches the history of 
medicine from the earliest period. He shows that the chief mistakes have been 
made through deference to theory and negligence of the teachings of facts. Thence 
he passes to an assertion of the value of the homoeopathic principle of similia simili- 
bus in the treatment of many diseases. He is not a follower of Hahnemann, and 
does not believe in infinitessimal doses, but he claims, and enforces his position by 
the citation of cases in his own practice, that the homoeopathic principle has performed 
wonders where that of his own school was much less successful. 

" Dr. Kidd acknowledges two laws — that of contraria contrariis and similia similibus ; but the cases he gives 
in his chapter on ars medica show that, like a sensible practitioner, he does not allow himself blindly to follow 
either the one or the other, but seeks out the cause of disease, and tries by rational measures to remove it. The 
cases are the most valuable part of the book." — London Practitioner . 

LEGG, ON THE URINE. 

Practical Guide to the Examination of the Urine, for Practitioner and Student. 
By J. Wickham Legg, m.d. Fifth Edition, Enlarged. Illustrated. i2mo. 

Price .75 

This little work is intended to supply the Physician or Student with a concise guide 

to the recognition of the different characteristics of the urine, and though small and 

well adapted to the pocket, contains, probably, everything that could be gleaned 

from a larger work. 

LEARED, IMPERFECT DIGESTION. 

The Causes and Treatment of Impeifect Digestion. By Arthur Leared, m.d. 
The 7th Edition. Revised and Enlarged. i2mo. Price $2.00 

LIEBREICH, ATLAS OF OPHTHALMOSCOPY. 

An Atlas of Ophthalmoscopy, containing 12 Full-page Chromo-Lithographic 
Plates, with 59 Figures. By R. Liebreich, m.d. Second Edition, Enlarged. 
Large Quarto. Price $12.00 

LIVEING, ON SICK HEADACHE. 

Megrim, or Sick Headache and Some Allied Disorders. By Edward Live- 
ing, m.d. With Plates, Tables, etc. 8vo. Price $5.50 

LEBER AND ROTTENSTEIN, DENTAL CARIES. 

Dental Caries and Its Causes. An Investigation into the Influence of Fungi 
in the Destruction of the Teeth. By Drs. Leber and Rottenstein. Illustrated. 
8vo. Price $1.25 

" The work gives the result of patient observation, presents the deductions of its authors with a perspicuity and 
modesty calculated to secure for its positions a thoughtful consideration. We heartily commend it as an educa- 
tional work." — Dental Cosmos. 



PUBLICA TIONS. 



25 



LEWIN, ON SYPHILIS. 

The Treatment of Syphilis. By Dr. George Lewin, of Berlin. Translated 
by Carl Proegler, m.d., and E. H. Gale, m.d., Surgeons U. S. Army. Illus- 
trated. i2mo. Price $1.25 

'* When such authorities as Dr. Drysciale (as we quoted a few weeks ago) condemn the use of mercury in syphilis 
as " too dangerous," while, on the other hand, eminent surgeons, such as Professor Gross, will not treat a case 
without that drug, general practitioners will gladly welcome any media via which gives us all the good effects of 
mercurials without any danger of their ill results appearing. This is what is accomplished by Dr. Lewin." — 
Philadelphia Medical and Surgical Reporter. 

LIZARS, ON TOBACCO. 

The Use and Abuse of Tobacco. 



By John Lizars, m.d. i2mo. Price 



LONGLEY, POCKET MEDICAL LEXICON. 

Students' Pocket Medical Dictionary, Giving the Correct Definition and Pro- 
nunciation of all Words and Terms in General Use in Medicine and the Collate- 
ral Sciences, with an Appendix, containing Poisons and their Antidotes, Abbre- 
viations Used in Prescriptions, and a Metric Scale of Doses. By Ellas Longley. 
24xno. Price, Cloth, $1.00; Tucks and Pocket $1.25 

This is an entirely new Medical Dictionary, containing some 300 compactly 
printed 24mo pages, very carefully prepared by the author, who has had much ex- 
perience in the preparation of similar works, assisted by the Professors of Chemistry 
and of Botany in one of our leading medical colleges. 



" This little book will be welcomed by students in 
medicine and pharmacy as a convenient pocket com- 
panion, giving the pronunciation, acceptation, and 
definition of medical, pharmaceutical, chemical and 
botanical terms." — American "Journal of Pharmacy. 

" It would seem to be just the book for dental and 
medical students." — Dental Advertiser. 



" It is, we believe, also the only lexicon in existence 
in which the pronunciation ofv/ords is fully and dis- 
tinctly marked." — Canada Medical Review. 

"This is avery compact and complete little diction- 
ary. We commend it as particularly useful to students." 
— New York Medical Journal. 



MAYNE, MEDICAL DICTIONARY. Fifth Edition. 

A Medical Vocabulary, Being an Explanation of all Terms and Phrases used 
in the Various Departments of Medical Science and Practice, Giving their Deri- 
vation, Meaning, Application, and Pronunciation. Intended specially as a Book 
of Reference for the Student. By Drs. R. G. and J. Mayne. Fifth Edition. 
Revised and Enlarged. Cloth. Price $4.00 

MEDICAL REGISTER. 

A Monthly Journal Devoted to the Literature of Medicine and Allied Sciences. 
Containing Critical Reviews, Book Notices, Miscellaneous News, and complete 
Bibliographical Lists of all New Books published on Medical and Scientific 
Subjects. Terms, per Annum, $1.00 

An invaluable Monthly Reference List for Librarians, Professors, Specialists, and 
all wishing to keep acquainted with the Medical Literature of the day. 

MACDONALD, MICROSCOPICAL EXAMINATION OF 
WATER. 

A Guide to the Microscopical Examination of Drinking Water. By J. D. 
Macdonald, m.d. With Twenty Full-page Lithographic Plates, Reference 
Tables, etc. 8vo. Price $2.75 

"The volume is an excellent hand-book and will greatly facilitate the study of the subject." — Popular Science 
Monthly. 

MACEWEN, ON OSTEOTOMY. 

An* Inquiry into the .-Etiology and Pathology of Knock-knee, Bow-leg and 
other Osseous Deformities of the Lower Limbs. By Wm. Macewen, m.d. Il- 
lustrated. 8vo. Price $3.00 



26 PRESLE Y BLAKISTON 'S 



MACKENZIE, ON THE THROAT AND NOSE. 

Including the Pharynx, Larynx, Trachea, (Esophagus, Nasal Cavities, and 
Neck. By Morell Mackenzie, m.d., London, Senior Physician to the Hos- 
pital for Diseases of the Chest and Throat, Lecturer on Diseases of the Throat 
at London Hospital Medical College, etc., etc. 

Vol. I. Including the Pharynx, Larynx, Trachea, etc. 112 Illustrations. 

Now Ready. Price, Cloth, $4.00 ; Leather, $5.00 

Vol. II. Including the (Esophagus, Nasal Cavities, Neck, etc. Illustrated. 

In Preparation. 
Author's Edition, issued under his supervision, containing all the original Wood 
Engravings, and the essay on " Diphtheria, Its Causes, Nature, and Treatment," for- 
merly published separately. Each volume sold separately ; purchasers of Volume I. 
will receive early information of date of issue and price of Volume II., upon sending 
their address to the publishers. 

' ' We have long felt the want of a thoroughly practical and systematic treatise on diseases of the throat 
and nasal passages. Admirable essays have from time to time appeared ; no standard work has been written. 
Any one familiar with laryngoscopic work must appreciate the valuable addition now made to this special 
department in the work before us. The entire work will include the consideration of affections of the pharynx, 
larynx, trachea, oesophagus, nasal cavities, and neck. The matter now presented complete for the first time is 
the result of the author's large and unrivaled experience, both in hospital and private practice, extending over 
a period of twenty years. There can be but one verdict of the profession on this manual — it stands without any 
competitor in medical literature, as a standard work on the organs it professes to treat of." — Dublin Journal. 

" It is both practical and learned ; abundantly and well illustrated ; its descriptions of disease are graphic, and 
the diagnoses the best we have anywhere seen. To give examples of the thoroughness of Dr. Mackenzie's book, 
we may cite the chapter on diphtheria, which embraces 47 pages. The chapter on non-malignant tumors of the 
larynx would appear to be absolutely exhaustive. Nowhere else have we seen so elaborate a statement of the sub- 
ject. We can predict for this work a high position, and congratulate its distinguished author upon its appear- 
ance." — Philadelphia Medical Times. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

THE PHARMACOPCEIA of the Hospital for Diseases of the 
Throat and Nose. 

The Fourth Edition, much enlarged, containing 250 Formulae, with Directions 
for their Preparation and Use. i6mo. Price $1.25 

GROWTHS IN THE LARYNX. 

Their History, Causes, Symptoms, etc. With Reports and Analysis of one 
Hundred Cases. With Colored and Other Illustrations. 8vo. Price $2.00 

MACNAMARA, DISEASES OF THE EYE. 

A Manual of the Diseases of the Eye. By C. Macnamara, m.d. Fourth 
Edition, Carefully Revised ; with Additions and Numerous Colored Plates, Dia- 
grams of Eye, Wood-cuts, and Test Types. Demi 8vo. Price $4.00 

"As a book of ready reference on diseases of the eye it has no superior, and we may safely say, no equal in our 
language." — Cincinnati Lancet and Observer. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

ON THE BONES AND JOINTS. 

Lectures on Diseases of the Bones and Joints. Second Edition. Demi 8vo. 

Price $4.25 

MADDEN, HEALTH RESORTS. 

Health Resorts for the Treatment of Chronic Diseases. A Hand-Book, the 
result of the author's own observations during several years of health travel in 
many lands, containing also remarks on climatology and the use of mineral 

waters. By T. M. Madden, m.d. 8vo. Price $2.50 

t 

" Rarely have we encountered a book containing so much information for both invalids and pleasure seekers." 
— The Sanitarian. 

MEDICAL REGISTER. 

Directory of Physicians in Philadelphia. Octavo. Cloth, $1.00 



PUBLICATIONS. 27 



MARSHALL & SMITH, ON THE URINE. 

The Chemical Analysis of the Urine. By John Marshall, m.d., and Edgar 
F. Smith, m.d., of the Chemical Laboratory, Medical Department, University of 
Pennsylvania. Illustrated by Phototype Plates. i2mo. Price $1.00 

MARSHALL, ANATOMICAL PLATES; 

Or Physiological Diagrams. Life Size (7 by 4 feet) and Beautifully Colored, 
By John Marshall, f.r.s. An Entirely New Edition, Revised and Improved, 
Illustrating the Whole Human Body. 
The Set, Eleven Maps, in Sheets, Price $50.00 

handsomely Mounted on Canvas, with 

Rollers, and Varnished, Price $80.00 
An Explanatory Key to the Diagrams, Price .$0 

Dr. Marshall's Plates, from their size and perfection of drawing and coloring, excel 
any diagrams that have been published. They have proved invaluable in Medical 
Schools and Lecture Rooms. The low price at which they are offered brings them 
within reach of all. 

No. i. The Skeleton and Ligaments. No. 2. The Muscles, Joints, and Animal Mechanics. No. 3. The Vis- 
cera in Position — The Structure of the Lungs. No. 4. The Organs of Circulation. No. 5. The Lymphatics or 
Absorbents. No. 6. The Digestive Organs. No. 7. The Brain and Nerves. No. 8. The Organs of the Senses 
and Organs of the Voice, Plate 1. No. 9. The Organs of the Senses, Plate 2. No. 10. The Microscopic 
Structure of the Textures, Plate 1. No. 11. The Microscopic Structure of the Textures, Plate 2. 

MARSDEN, ON CANCER. 

A New and Successful Mode of Treating Certain Forms of Cancer. By Alex- 
ander Marsden, m.d. Second Edition. Colored Plates. 8vo. Price $3.00 

MARTIN, MICROSCOPIC MOUNTING. 

A Manual of Microscopic Mounting. With Notes on the Collection and Ex- 
amination of Objects, and upwards of 150 Illustrations. By John H. Martin. 
Second Edition, Enlarged. 8vo. Price $2.75 

MORRIS, ON THE JOINTS. 

The Anatomy of the Joints of Man. Comprising a Description of the Liga 
ments, Cartilages, and Synovial Membranes; of the Articular Parts of Bones, 
etc. By Henry Morris, f.r.c.s. Illustrated by 44 Large Plates and Numerous 
Figures, many of which are Colored. 8vo. Price $5.50 

MUTER, MEDICAL AND PHARMACEUTICAL CHEMIS- 
TRY. 

An Introduction to Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry. Part One. — 
Theoretical and Descriptive. Part Two. — Practical and Analytical. Arranged 
on the principle of the Course of Lectures on Chemistry as delivered at, and the 
Instruction given in the Laboratories of, the South London School of Pharmacy. 
By John Muter, m.d., President of the Society of Public Analysts. A Second 
Edition, Enlarged and Rearranged. The Two Parts bound in one large octavo 
volume. Price $6.00 

Part Two. — Practical and Analytical. Bound Separately, for the Special Con- 
venience of Students. Large 8ro. Cloth. Price $2.50 

MAC MUNN, THE SPECTROSCOPE. 

The Spectroscope in Medicine. By Chas. A. Mac Munn, m.d. With 3 
Chromo-lithographic Plates of Physiological and Pathological Spectra, and 13 
Wood Cuts. 8vo. Price $3.og 

" This hook is, without question, the "best that has yet been published on the subject ; to those not familiar with 
Physiological Spectroscopy it will prove interesting, while to those who are working in this field it is a neces' 
sity." — New York Medical Journal. 



28 



PRESLEY BLAKISTON'S 



MASON, ON THE FACE. 

The Surgery of the Face. By Francis Mason, f.r.c.s. With ioo Illustra- 
tions, showing the various operations performed. 8vo. Price $2.25 

Dr. Mason has for many years taken considerable interest in the surgery of the 
face, mouth, throat, and contiguous parts, collecting several thousand cases of the 
different operations having special reference to these regions, which, from their 
conspicuousness, form a very important part of the human body. 

MAUNDER, OPERATIVE SURGERY. 

Operative Surgery. Adapted to the Living and Dead Subject. By C. F. 
Maunder, f.r.c.s. Second Edition, with One Hundred and Sixty-four En- 
gravings on Wood. Price $2.25 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

THE ARTERIES. 

Surgery of the Arteries, including Aneurisms, Wounds, Hemorrhages, 
Twenty-seven Cases of Ligatures, Antiseptic, etc. With Illustrations. Price $1.50 

MAXON, ON PRACTICE. 

The Practice of Medicine. By Edwin R. Maxon, m.d. 8vo. Price $3.00 

MAYS, THE THERAPEUTIC FORCES; 

Or, The Action of Medicine in the Light of the Doctrine of Conservation of 
Force. By Thomas J. Mays, m.d. i2mo. Price $1.25 

MEADOWS, ON MIDWIFERY. 

A Text-Book of Midwifery. Including the Signs and Symptoms of Preg- 
nancy, Obstetric Operations, Diseases of the Puerperal State, etc. By Alfred 
Meadows, m.d. Third American, from Fourth London Edition. Revised and 
Enlarged. With 145 Illustrations. 8vo. Price $2.00 



"It is with great gratification that we are enabled 
to class Dr. Meadows' Manual as a rare exception, 
and to pronounce it an accurate, practical, and cred- 
itable work, and to unhesitatingly recommend it to 
both student and practitioner." — American Journal 
of Obstetrics. 

" We cannot but feel that every teacher of Obstet- 
rics has good cause to congratulate himself on being 
able to put in the hands of the student a book which 
contains so much valuable and reliable information." 
— Philadelphia Medical Times. 



"On all questions of treatment, whether by medi- 
cines, by hygienic regimen, or by mechanical or oper- 
ative appliances, this treatise is as satisfactory as a 
work of manual size could be : students and practi- 
tioners can hardly do better than adopt it as their 
vade mecum." — The Practitioner. 

" The systematic arrangement of subjects, and the 
concise, practical style in which it is written, make 
the work especially valuable as a student's manual." 
Chicago Medical Examiner. 



MEARS, PRACTICAL SURGERY. 

Practical Surgery. Including : Part 1. — Surgical Dressings ; Part II. — Band- 
aging ; Part hi. — Ligations ; Part iv. — Amputations. With 227 Illustrations. 
By J. Ewing Mears, m.d., Demonstrator of Surgery in Jefferson Medical Col- 
lege, and Professor of Anatomy and Clinical Surgery in the Pennsylvania Col- 
lege of Dental Surgery. i2mo. Price $2.00 



" Professor Mears has written a convenient and use- 
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it as fulfilling well the promise made in its modest 
preface." — Cincinnati Lancet and Clinic. 



" It contains a great deal of information upon the 
subjects of which it treats, in a convenient and con- 
densed form. Each division is well illustrated, thereby 
rendering the text doubly clear." — New York Meaical 
Record. 



MILLER, ON ALCOHOL. 

Alcohol. Its Place and Power. By James Miller, f.r.c.s. i2mo. 



MILLER & LIZARS, ALCOHOL AND TOBACCO. 

Alcohol. Its Place and Power. By James Miller, f.r.c.s. ; and, Tobacco, 
By John Lizars, m.a. The two essays in one volume. 

Price $1.00 



Its Use and Abuse. 
i2mo. 



PUB LI CA TIONS. 29 



MENDENHALL, VADE MECUM. 

The Medical Student's Vade Mecum. A Compend of Anatomy, Physiology, 
Chemistry, The Practice of Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics, etc. By George 
Mendenhall, m.d. Eleventh Edition. 224 Illustrations. 8vo. Price $2.00 

MEIGS AND PEPPER, DISEASES OF CHILDREN. 

A Practical Treatise on the Diseases of Children. By J. Forsyth Meigs, m.d., 
Fellow of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, etc., etc., and William 
Pepper, m.d., Physician to the Philadelphia Hospital, Provost University of 
Pennsylvania. Seventh Edition, thoroughly Revised and Enlarged. A Royal 
Octavo Volume of over 1000 pages. Price, Cloth, $6.00; Leather, $7.00 

" With the recent additions it may safely be pronounced one of the best and most comprehensive works on Dis- 
eases of Children." — Nezv York Medical Journal. 

" Must be regarded as the most complete work on Diseases of Children in our language."— Edinburgh Medical 
Journal. 

" We have seldom met with a text-book so complete, so just and so readable as the one before us." — American 
Journal of Obstetrics. 

MATHIAS, LEGISLATIVE MANUAL. 

A Rule for Conducting Business in Meetings of Societies, Legislative Bodies, 
Town and Ward Meetings, etc. By Bent. Mathias, A.m. Sixteenth Edition. 
i6mo. Price .50 

MORTON, REFRACTION OF EYE. 

The Refraction of the Eye. Its Diagnosis and the Correction of its Errors. 
With Chapter on Keratoscopy. By A. Stanford Morton, m.b., f.r.c.s. i2mo. 

Price $1.00 

" The author has not only given very thorough rules for the objective and subjective examinations of the eye in 
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OVERMAN, MINERALOGY. 

Practical Mineralogy, Assaying, and Mining, with a Description of the Useful 
Minerals, etc. By Frederick Overman, Mining Engineer, nth Edition. 
i2mo. Cloth. Price $1.00 

OGSTON, MEDICAL JURISPRUDENCE. 

Lectures on Medical Jurisprudence. By Drs. Francis and Francis Ogston, 
Jr. With Copper-plate Illustrations. 8vo. Price $6.00 

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OLDBERG, PRESCRIPTION BOOK. 300 New Prescriptions. 

Three Hundred Prescriptions, Selected Chiefly from the Best Collections of 
Formulae used in Hospital and Out-patient-practice, with a Dose Table, and a 
Complete Account of the Metric System. By Oscar Oldberg, phar. d., Late 
Medical Purveyor, United States Marine Hospital Service ; Professor of Materia 
Medica, National College of Pharmacy, Washington, D. C. ; Member of the 
American Pharmaceutical Association, and of the Sixth Decennial Committee 
of Revision and Publication of the Pharmacopoeia of the United States. 
i2mo. Price, Paper Covers, .75; Cloth, $1.25 

The prescriptions given in this work are selected from the Pharmacopoeias and 
formularies of the great Hospitals of New York, Philadelphia, Boston and London, 
or contributed from the practice of medical officers of the United States Service. The 
Dose Table includes nearly all of the remedies that have a place in the current 
Materia Medica. 



3 o PRESLE Y BLAKISTON'S 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

THE UNOFFICIAL PHARMACOPOEIA. 

Comprising over 700 Popular and Useful Preparations, not Official in the 
United States, of the various Elixirs, Fluid Extracts, Mixtures, Syrups, Tinct- 
ures, Ointments, Wines, etc, etc., in constant demand throughout the country. 
Thick i2mo. 503 pp. Half Morocco. Price $3.50 

Sold by Subscription. 
j^*It Will Prove a Useful Supplement to the Pharmacopoeia of the 
United States ; the aim has been to make it as complete as practicable. The form- 
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ures. The virtual adoption of the metric system in the forthcoming Pharmacopoeia 
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ume, which, however, does not prevent the ready use of the book with apothecaries' 
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have been gathered are believed to be the best. They include the Pharmacopoeias 
of England, Germany, France and Sweden. The book is practically equivalent to 
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reference to their popularity, usefulness, and interesting character. 

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tion. It has received high commendation from many of our best pharmacists." — Lazell, Marsh &* Gardiner, 
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OTT, ACTION OF MEDICINES. 

The Action of Medicines. By Isaac Ott, m.d., late Demonstrator of Experi- 
mental Physiology in the University of Pennsylvania. With 22 Illustrations. 
8vo. Price $2.00 

PAGE, INJURIES OF THE [iPINE. 

Injuries of the Spine and Spinal Cord, without apparent Lesion and Nervous 
Shock. In their Surgical and Medico-Legal Aspects. By Herbert W. Page, 
m.d., m.c.cantab., f.r.c.S., Surgeon to, and Lecturer on Surgery at, St. Mary's 
Hospital, London. Octavo, Cloth. Price 

PAGET, SURGICAL PATHOLOGY. 

Lectures on Surgical Pathology, Delivered at the Royal College of Surgeons. 
By James Paget, f.r.s. Third Edition. Edited by William Turner, m.d. 
With Numerous Illustrations. 8vo. Price, Cloth, $7.00; Leather, #8.00 

PARKES, PRACTICAL HYGIENE. Sixth Edition. 

A Manual of Practical Hygiene. By Edward A. Parkes, m.d. The Sixth 
Revised and Enlarged Edition. With Many Illustrations. 8vo. Price $6.00 

" Altogether it is the most complete work on Hygiene which we have seen." — New York Medical Record. 
" We find that it never fails to throw light on any hygienic question which may be proposed." — Boston Medi- 
cal and Surgical Journal. 

"We commend the book heartily to all needing instruction (and who does not), in Hygiene " — Chicago Medi- 
cal Journal. 

PIESSE, THE MANUFACTURE OF PERFUMERY. Fourth 
Edition. 

The Art of Perfumery ; or the Methods of Obtaining the Odors of Plants, and 
Instruction for the Manufacture of Perfumery, Dentifrices, Soap, Scented Pow- 
ders, Odorous Vinegars and Salts, Snuff, Cosmetics, etc., etc. By G. W. Septi- 
mus Piesse. Fourth Edition. Enlarged. 366 Illustrations. 8vo. Cloth. 

Price $5.50 

An excellent book." — Commercial Advertiser. " Exceedingly useful to druggists and perfumers." — 



"It is the best book on Perfumery yet published." 
Scientific American. 



Journal of Chemistry. 

" Is in the fullest sense, comprehensive." — Medical 
Record. 



PUBLICATIONS. 31 



POTTER, QUIZ BOOK OF ANATOMY. Illustrated. 

Anatomy Arranged in Questions and Answers as used in the Quiz Classes and 
Examinations at Medical Colleges. By Samuel O. L. Potter, m.d. With over 
60 Wood Engravings. No. 1 Quiz-Compend Series. i2mo. Cloth, Price $1.00 

Part II. — Visceral Anatomy. In Preparation. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

QUIZ BOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA. 

Materia Medica Arranged in Questions and Answers as used in the Quiz 
Classes and Examinations at all Medical Colleges, Based on the Principal Text- 
books. No. 4 Quiz-Compend Series. i2mo. Cloth. Price $1.00 

SPEECH, AND ITS DEFECTS. 

Considered Physiologically, Pathologically, Historically, and Remedially ; being 
the Lea Prize Thesis of Jefferson Medical College, 1882. Revised and Corrected 
for Publication. i2mo. Cloth. Price $1.00 

PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL REPORTS. 

Edited by a Committee of the Hospital Staff. J. M. DaCosta, m.d., and 
William Hunt, m.d. Vols. 1 and 2, containing Original Articles by former 
and present Members of the Staff. With Lithographic and other Illustrations. 
8vo. Price, per volume, $2.00 

PEREIRA, PRESCRIPTION BOOK. Sixteenth Edition. 

Physician's Prescription Book. Containing Lists of Terms, Phrases, Con- 
tractions and Abbreviations used in Prescriptions, Explanatory Notes, Gram- 
' matical Construction of Prescriptions, Rules for the Pronunciation of Pharma- 
ceutical Terms. By Jonathan Pereira, m.d., f.r.s. Sixteenth Edition. 
Price, Cloth, $1.00; Leather, with tucks and pockets, $1.25 

PHYSICIAN'S VISITING LIST. PUBLISHED ANNUALLY. 

THIRTY-SECOND YEAR OF ITS PUBLICATION. 
SIZES AND PRICES. 

For 25 Patients weekly. Tucks, pockets, and pencil, - $1.00 

50 " ' " " 1.25 

75 " " " « - . - 1.50 

100 " " " " 2.00 

5 o - » 2 vols. {JSf-SfiS:!} " - - - - 2 . 5 o 

ZOO! •■ "3V01S. ffejTfirl " -■--■■■ 3.00 



( July to Dec. 

INTERLEAVED EDITION. 

For 25 Patients weekly, interleaved, tucks, pockets, etc., - - - - 1.25 

£ " "•-*■ {&£fig[ " '-'■'■'- Z 

The Visiting List contains a New Table of Poisons and their Antidotes. The 
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to that of the Metric System, giving the Doses in both. 

This last is a most valuable addition, and will materially aid the Physician. So 
many writers now use the metric system, especially in foreign books and journals, 
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understand the measurements or doses. 



"It is certainly the most popular Visiting List ex- 
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32 PRESLEY BLAKISTON'S 

POWER, HOLMES, ANSTIE AND BARNES (Drs.\ 

Reports on the Progress of Medicine, Surgery, Physiology, Midwifery, Dis- 
eases of Women and Children, Materia Medica, Medical Jurisprudence, Ophthal- 
mology, etc., etc. Reported for the New Sydenham Society. 8vo. Price $2.00 

PURCELL, ON CANCER. 

Cancer. Its Allies and other Tumors, with Specia Reference to their Medi- 
cal and Surgical Treatment. By F. Albert Purcell, m.d., m.r.c.S. Surgeon 
to the Cancer Hospital, Brompton, England. 8vo. Price $3.75 

RADCLIFFE, ON EPILEPSY. 

On Epilepsy, Pain, Paralysis, and other Disorders of the Nervous System. 
By Charles Bland Radcliffe, m.d. Illustrated. i2mo. Price $1.50 

" To no authority can the medical inquirer turn for an analysis of the phenomena of epilepsy with more satisfac- 
tion than to the admirable essay of Dr. Radcliffe." — American Journal Medical Sciences. 

ROBERTS, MANUAL OF MIDWIFERY. 

The Student's Guide to the Practice of Midwifery. By D. Lloyd R.oberts, 
m.d., f.r.c.p., Physician to St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester, etc., etc. Second 
Edition. With 95 Illustrations. i2mo. Price $1.25 

" As an obstetrical manual, we think that of Dr. Rob- 
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REYNOLDS, ELECTRICITY. 

Lectures on the Clinical Uses of Electricity. By J. Russell Reynolds, m.d., 
f.r.s. Second Edition. i2mo. Price $1.00 

" It is thoroughly reliable as a guide, very concise, and will be found exceedingly useful to the general practi- 
tioner." — Canada Lancet. 

RICHARDSON, MECHANICAL DENTISTRY. Third Edi- 
tion. 

A Practical Treatise on Mechanical Dentistry. By Joseph Richardson, d.d.s. 
Third Edition. With 185 Illustrations. 8vo. Price, Cloth, $4.00; Leather, $4.75 

" Taken as a whole, Professor Richardson's work is a valuable contribution to the dental art, and is beyond all 
question the best treatise extant upon the general subject of Mechanical Dentistry."— Dental Cosmos. 

RIGBY AND MEADOWS, OBSTETRIC MEMORANDA. 

Dr. Rigby's Obstetric Memoranda. Fourth Edition. Revised. By Alfred 
Meadows, m.d. 32mo. Price .50 

PIGGOTT, ON COPPER. 

Copper Mining and Copper Ore. With a full Description of the Principal 
Copper Mines of the United States, the Art of Mining, etc. By A. Snowden 
Piggott. i2mo. Price $1.00 

PRINCE, ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY. 

Plastic and Orthopedic Surgery. By David Prince, m.d. Containing a 
Report on the Condition of, and Advance made in, Plastic and Orthopedic Sur- 
gery, etc., etc., and Numerous Illustrations. 8vo. Price $4-5° 

RYAN, ON MARRIAGE. . i 

The Philosophy of Marriage. In its Social, Moral and Physical Relations 
and Diseases of the Urinary Organs. By Michael Ryan, m.d. Member of 
the Royal College of Physicians, London. i2mo. Price $1.00 



PUBLICA TIONS. 33 



ROBERTS, PRACTICE OF MEDICINE. Fourth Edition. 

The Theory and Practice of Medicine. By Frederick Roberts, m.d. 
Third American, from the Fourth London Edition. 8vo. 

Price, Cloth, $5.00 ; Leather, $6.00 

Recommended at the University of Pennsylvania, Yale and Dartmouth Colleges, 
University of Michigan, and many other Medical Schools. 

The unexceptional large and rapid sale of this book, and the universal commen- 
dation it has received from the profession, seems to be a sufficient guarantee of its 
merits as a Text-book. The publishers are in receipt of numerous letters from 
Professors in the medical schools, speaking favorably of it, and below they give 
extracts from the medical press, American and English, attesting its superiority and 
value to both student and practitioner. The present edition has been thoroughly 
revised and much of it re-written. 

" The best Text-book for Students in the English I " To the student it will be a gift of priceless value." 
language. We know of no work in the English Ian- ! — Detroit Review of Medicine. 
sa& ^' °jj n , any , °l h ^' y~ ich com P etes with this ! "We heartily recommend it to students, teachers, 



one." — Edinburgh Medical Journal, 

" It is a remarkable evidence of industry, experi- 
ence, and research." — Practitioner. 

" Dr. Roberts' book is admirably fitted to supply 
the want of a good hand-book, so much felt by every 



and practitioners." — Boston Medical and Surgical 
Journal. 

" It is of a much higher order than the usual compi- 
ations and abstracts placed in the hands of students." 
1 — Medical and Surgical Reporter. 
medical student."— Student s Journal and Hospital I .< It ; s unsurpassed by any work that has fallen into 
Gazette. our hands as a compendium for students." — The 

" It contains a vast deal of capital instruction for Clinic. 



" We particularly commend it to students about to 
enter upon the practice of their profession." — St. Louis 
Medical and Surgical Journal. 



the student." — Medical Times and Gazette. 

" There are great excellencies in this book, which 
will make it agreat favorite with the student. "—Rich- 
mond and Louisville Journal. 

RINDFLEISCH, PATHOLOGICAL HISTOLOGY. 

A Text-Book of Pathological Histology. By Dr. Edward Rindfleisch. 
Translated by Drs. Wm. C. Kolman and F. T. Miller. 208 Illustrations. 
8vo. 
Recommended as a Text-Book at the University of Pennsylvania and other Med- 
ical Schools. 

" To be up with the times, our Pathologists must make themselves familiar with the thorough, clear, and al- 
most exhaustive teachings of Professor Rindfleisch." — Ohio Medical and Surgical Reporter. 

ROYLE AND HARLEY, MATERIA MEDICA. Sixth Edition. 

A Manual of Materia Medica and Therapeutics. By Dr. J. Forbes Royle. 
Sixth Edition. Edited by John Harley, m.d. 840 pages and numerous Illus- 
trations. Demi 8vo. Price $5.00 

RUTHERFORD, PRACTICAL HISTOLOGY. 

Outlines of Practical Histology ; being the Notes of the Course of Practical 
Physiology given in King's College, London, and the University of Edinburgh. 
By William Rutherford, m.d., f.r.s., Professor of the Institutes of Medicine 
in the University of Edinburgh (with additional leaves for Notes). Third Edi- 
tion. Illustrated. [In Press. 

" To the student and teacher of Practical Histology, this work can hardly help being a great boon. It is 
complete, yet short, perfectly clear and simple, and moreover every line bespeaks the outcome of an extensive 
practical acquaintance with the subject."— Medical Times and Gazette, London. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

THE ACTION OF DRUGS ON THE BILE. 

An Experimental Research on the Physiological Action of Drugs on the Se- 
cretion of Bile. 100 Illustrations. 8vo. Price $3.00 

SANKEY, MENTAL DISEASES. 

Lectures on Mental Diseases. By W. H. O. Sankey, m.d. 8vo. Price $3.00 



34 



PRESLEY BLAKISTON'S 



SANDERSON AND FOSTER, THE PHYSIOLOGICAL LA- 
BORATORY. 

A Hand-book of the Physiological Laboratory. Being Practical Exercises for 
Students in Physiology and Histology. By J. Burdon Sanderson, m.d., E. 
Klein, m.d., Michael Foster, m.d., f.r.s., and T. Lauder Brunton, m.d. 
With over 350 Illustrations and Appropriate Letter-press Explanations and Ref- 
erences. 

Price, Two Volumes, Text and Plates, separate, - $6.00 

" One " " " bound together, Cloth, 5.00 

Leather, 6.00 
Adopted as a Text-book at Yale College, and used at other Medical Schools in 
America and England. 



" Recognizing the fact that Physiology is emphatic- 
ally an experimental science, it furnishes minute in- 
structions for performing a great variety of exper- 
iments. A student could scarcely desire a better guide." 
— Boston Medical and Surgical Journal. 



" We confidently recommend it to the attention of all 
who are interested in the wide and fertile field of Phy- 
siological research." — New York Medical Journal. 

" This is a most superb bonk, and fills a hiatus which 
every physiological student has lamented." — Chicago 
Medical Journal. 



SANDERSON, PHYSIOLOGY. Second Edition. 

A Syllabus of a Course of Lectures on Physiology. By J. 
son, m.d. For the Use of Students. Second Edition. 8vo. 



Burdon Sander- 
Price $1.50 



SANDERSON, PRACTICAL EXERCISES IN PHYSIOLOGY. 

8vo. Illustrated. Price $1.12 

SANSOM, PHYSICAL DIAGNOSIS. Third Edition just ready. 

The Physical Diagnosis of Diseases of the Heart. Including the Use of the 
Sphygmograph and Cardiograph. By Arthur Ernest Sansom, m.d. Third 
Edition. Revised and Enlarged. With Illustrations. i2mo. Price $2.00 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

ON CHLOROFORM. 

Chloroform. Its Action and Administration. i2mo. Price $1.50 

SMITH, MANUAL OF GYNECOLOGY. 

Practical Gynsecology. A Hand-book of the Diseases of Women. By Hey- 
wood Smith, m.d. Physician to the Hospital for Women and to the British 
Lying-in Hospital. With Engravings. Price $1.25 

The object of the author has been to present the busy practitioner with a book 
systematically arranged, burdened with no discussions on Vexed questions of pathol- 
ogy, and giving at a glance the salient points of diagnosis and treatment with clear- 
ness and brevity. 

Contents. — Chapter 1. On the Means of Diagnosis : On Touch — immediate and intermediate. On Sight 
— immediate and intermediate. On Hearing. — immediate and intermediate. 2. General Diseases. 3. Local 
Diseases — Diseases of the Ovary. 4. Diseases of the Oviduct. 5. Diseases of the Broad Ligament. 6. Diseases 
of the Uterus (unimpregnated). 7. Diseases of the Vagina. 8. Diseases of the Vulva. 9. Diseases of the Mam- 
ma. 10. Functional Diseases. 11. Diseases connected with Pregnancy. 12. Diseases connected with Parturi- 
tion. 13. Diseases consequent on Parturition. Appendix of Remedies. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 



DYSMENORRHEA. Just Issued. 

Its Pathology and Treatment. i2mo. 



Price $1.75 



SMITH, RINGWORM. 

The Diagnosis and Treatment of Ringworm. 
With Illustrations. i2mo. 



By Alder Smith, f.r.c.s. 
Price $1.00 



SMITH, ON NURSING. 

The Efficient Training of Nurses for Hospital and Private Practice. By Wil- 
liam Robert Smith. Illustrated. Third Edition. Price 



PUBLICA TIONS. 35 



SMITH, ON CHILDREN. 

Clinical Studies of Diseases in Children. By Eustace Smith, m.d. Second 
Revised Edition. Price $2.50 

MEDICAL HERESIES, HISTORICALLY CONSIDERED. 

A Series of Critical Essays on the Origin and Evolution of Sectarian Medi- 
cine, embracing a Special Sketch and Review of Homoeopathy, Past and Pres- 
ent. By Gonzalvo C. Smythe, a.m., m.d. Professor of the Principles and 
Practice of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Indianapolis, Indi- 
ana. i2mo. Cloth. Price $1.25 



" This book gives, in a small compass, an excellent 
history of medicine, from its earliest day to the present 
time." — Buffalo Medical and Surgical Journal. 

"Cannot fail to be of interest, not only to- the medi- 
cal profession, but to the general reader." — Baltimore 
Gazette. 

" The work is pleasantly written, in an easy, familiar 
style, and has cost the writer much literary research." 
— New York Medical Journal. 



"Students and others interested in the subject of 
medicine will find a digest of the entire controversy 
(between the various schools of medicine) presented in 
this volume." — Journal of Education. 

" Professor Smythe has succeeded in writing a brief, 
clear, and interesting sketch of the evolution of medical 
eccentricities, and of modem homoeopathy, its facts and 
fallacies." — Philadelphia Medical Times. 



SAVAGE, FEMALE PELVIC ORGANS. Author's Edition. 

The Surgery, Surgical Pathology and Surgical Anatomy of the Female Pelvic 
Organs. In a Series of Colored Plates taken from Nature, with Commentaries, 
Notes and Cases. By Henry Savage, m.d., f.r.c.s. New Edition. Issued by 
arrangement with the Author, from the original Plates. Quarto. Price $12.00 

SAVORY & MOORE, DOMESTIC MEDICINE. 

A Condensed Compend of Domestic Medicine, and Companion to the Medi- 
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SCHULTZE, OBSTETRICAL PLATES. 

Obstetrical Diagrams. Life Size. By Prof. B. S. Schultze, m.d., of Berlin. 
Twenty in the Set. Colored. 

Price, in Sheets, $15.00; Mounted on Rollers $25.00 

SCANZONI, DISEASES OF WOMEN. 

A Practical Treatise on the Diseases of the Sexual Organs of Women. By 
Dr. F. W. Von Scanzoni. Translated by A. K. Gardiner, m.d. 8vo. 

Price $5.00 

SIEVEKING, LIFE ASSURANCE. 

The Medical Adviser in Life Assurance. By E. H. Sieveking, m.d. i2mo. 
Second Edition, Revised. Price $2.00 

SHEPPARD, ON MADNESS. 

Madness, in its Medical, Social and Legal Aspects. A series of Lectures de- 
livered at King's Medical College, London. By Edgar Sheppard, m.d. 8vo. 

Price $2.25 

STOCKEN, DENTAL MATERIA MEDICA. Third Edition. 

The Elements of Dental Materia Medica and Therapeutics with Pharmacopoeia. 
By James Stocken, d.d.s. Third Edition. i2mo. 

The first edition of this book was disposed of in a little less than four months. In 
making this revision the author has endeavored to make it still more useful by the 
addition of considerable new matter. 

SUTTON, VOLUMETRIC ANALYSIS. Fourth Edition. 

A Systematic Handbook of Volumetric Analysis, or the Quantitative Estima- 
tion of Chemical Substances by Measure, Applied to Liquids, Solids, and Gases. 
By Francis Sutton, f.c.s. Fourth Edition. Revised and Enlarged, with Illus- 
trations. 8vo. Price $5.00 



36 PRESLEY BLAKISTON'S 

SEWELL, DENTAL ANATOMY AND SURGERY. 

A Manual of Dental Anatomy and Surgery, Including the Extraction of Teeth. 
By H. E. Sewell, d.d.s., m.d. With 77 Illustrations. i2mo. Price $1.25 

" A valuable book for the general Practitioner who " It will be found useful to the general Practitioner in 

fe in want of a practical manual relating especially to the management of many incidental affections connected 
diseases of the teeth." — Medical Brief . with the teeth and mouth, which cannot always be 

handed over to the specialist."— Pacific Med. Journal. 

STILLE, ON MENINGITIS. 

Epidemic Meningitis, or Cerebro-spinal Meningitis. By Alfred Stille, m.d., 
Professor of Practice at the University of Pennsylvania. 8vo. Price $2.00 

" The name of the author is a sufficient guarantee that this monograph is elegant in style, exhaustive of its sub- 
ject and rich with practical suggestions."— Philadelphia Medical and Surgical Reporter. 

STOKES, DISEASES OF THE HEART. 

The Diseases of the Heart and Aorta. By William Stokes, m.d. Thick 
8vo. Price #3.00 

SWAIN, SURGICAL EMERGENCIES. 

Surgical Emergencies : Concise Descriptions of the Various Accidents and 
Emergencies, with Directions for their Treatment. By Wm. Paul Swain, f.r. 
C.s. Eighty-two Illustrations. i2mo. Price $2.00 

Contents.— Chapter I. Injuries to the Head. II. Injuries to the Eye. III. Injuries to the Mouth, 
Pharynx, (Esophagus, and Larynx. IV. The Chest. V. The Upper Extremity. VI. The Abdomen. VII. 
The Pelvis. VIII. The Lower Extremity. IX. Emergencies connected with Parturition. X. Poisoning. 
XI. Antiseptic Treatment. XII. Apparatus and Dressing. 

" Many surgeons will thank Dr. Swain for the trouble he has taken to put them easily in possession of this re- 
fresher of half forgotten knowledge. — The Practitioner. 

SWERINGEN, PHARMACEUTICAL LEXICON. 

A Pharmaceutical Lexicon or Dictionary of Pharmaceutical Science. Contain- 
ing explanations of the various subjects and terms of Pharmacy, with appropriate 
selections from the Collateral Sciences. Formulae for Officinal, Empirical, and 
Dietetic Preparations, etc., etc. By Hiram. V. Sweringen, m.d. 8vo. 

Price, Cloth, $3.00 ; Leather, $4.00 

" It is worthy of a welcome, and sure of a ready recognition of its merits."— London Pharmaceutical Journal. 
" It will prove of great service to the pharmaceutical student, apprentice, pharmacist, druggist and physician, as 
a book of ready reference and as an aid to the study of scientific works." — American Journal of Pharmacy. 

THOMPSON, LITHOTOMY AND LITHOTRITY. 

Practical Lithotomy and Lithotrity ; or, an Inquiry into the best Modes of 
Removing Stone from the Bladder. By Sir Henry Thompson, f.r.c.s., Emer- 
itus Professor of Clinical Surgery in University College. Third Edition. 8vo. 
With 87 Engravings. Price $3.50 

" The chapters of most interest are those in which Bigelow's operation is discussed, and the final one, in 
which is a record of 500 operations for stone in cases of male adults under the author's care. Such a table had 
never before been compiled by any surgeon." — Lancet. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

URINARY ORGANS. 

Diseases of the Urinary Organs. Clinical Lectures. Sixth London Edition. 
Enlarged, with 73 Illustrations. Price, Cloth, $1.25 ; Paper, .75 

ON THE PROSTATE. 

Diseases of the Prostate. Their Pathology and Treatment. Fifth London 
Edition. 8vo. With Numerous Plates. Price, Cloth, #1.25 ; Paper, .75. 

CALCULOUS DISEASES. 

The Preventive Treatment of Calculous Disease, and the Use of Solvent 
Remedies. Second Edition. i6mo. Price $1.00 

" Catholic in his investigation of the fruit of the labor of others, cautious in all his deductions, rejecting all spe- 
cious theories in the effort to obtain practically useful results, as clever with his pen as he is with the sound or 
lithotrite, one can scarcely wonder that he is esteemed the master that he is."— American Journal of Medico* 
Science. 



PUBLICA TIONS. 37 



THOMPSON, COUGHS AND COLDS. 

The Causes, Nature, and Treatment of Coughs and Colds. By E. S. Thomp- 
son, m.d. i6mo. Price .60 

THOROWGOOD, MATERIA MEDICA. 

The Student's Guide to Materia Medica. By John C. Thorowgood, m.d. 
Illustrated. 318 pages. i2mo. Price $2.00 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

ON ASTHMA. 

The Forms, Nature, and Treatment of Asthma. i2mo. 

TUSON, VETERINARY PHARMACOPOEIA. 

A Pharmacopoeia, Including the Outlines of Materia Medica and Therapeu- 
tics. For the Use of Students and Practitioners of Veterinary Medicine. By 
Richard V. Tuson, f.c.s. Third Edition. i2mo. Price $2.50 

" Not only practitioners and students of veterinary medicine, but chemists and druggists will find that this 
book supplies a want in veterinary literature." — .Druggist and Chemist. 

THUDICHUM ON THE URINE. Second Edition. 

The Pathology of the Urine and Complete Guide to Analysis. By John L. 
W. Thudichum, m.d. Second Edition. Enlarged and Illustrated. 8vo. 

Price I5.00 

"The treatise of Dr. Thudichum is well known as one of the medical classics of the language, and in com- 
pleteness, thoroughness, and originality, the volume before us has few rivals in any branch of our science. For 
the specialist, for the physiological chemist, for the physiologist, the volume of Dr. Thudichum is a sine qua 
non, and to such the new edition must be a most welcome guest." — Philadelphia Medical Times, 

TROUSSEAU, CLINICAL MEDICINE. 

Lectures on Clinical Medicine, Delivered at the Hotel Dieu, Paris, by A. 
Trousseau, Professor of Clinical Medicine to the Faculty of Medicine, Paris, 
etc., etc. Translated from the Third Revised and Enlarged Edition by P. Vic- 
tor Bazire, m.d , London and Paris ; and John Rose Cormack, m.d., Edin- 
burgh, f.r.s., etc. With a full Index, Table of Contents, etc. 2 vols. 8vo. 
Sold by Subscription only. Price, Cloth, $8.00; Leather, $10.00 

Sydenham Edition, Same Work. 5 Vols. 8vo. Large Print. Price $15.00 
Trousseau's Lectures have attained a reputation, both in England and in this 
country, far greater than any work of a similar character heretofore written. In 
order to bring the work within the reach of all the profession, the publishers now 
issue an American edition, containing all the lectures as contained in the five-vol- 
ume Sydenham edition, at a much lower price. Below are a few only of the many 
favorable opinions expressed of the work : — 



" A clever translation of Prof. Trousseau's admirable 
and exhaustive work ; the best book of reference upon 
the Practice of Medicine." — Indiana Medical Gazette. 

"The great reputation of Prof. Trousseau as a prac- 
titioner and teacher of Medicine in all its branches, 
renders the present appearance of his Clinical Lectures 
particularly welcome." — Medical Press and Circular. 

" It treats of diseases of daily occurrence and of the 
most vital interest to the practitioner. And we should 
think any medical library absurdly incomplete now 
which did not have alongside of Watson, Graves, and 
Tanner, the 'Clinical Medicine' of Trousseau." — 
London Lancet. 



" We scarcely know of any book better fitted for 
presentation to a young man when entering upon the 
practical work of his life." — London Medical Ti?nes 
and Gazette. 

" The publication of Trousseau's Lectures furnishes 
medical men with one of the best practical treatises 
on disease as seen at the bedside. The conversational 
style adopted by the author lends animation to the 
work, and the translator deserves credit for having so 
well preserved the easy and ready style of the origi- 
nal." — British and Foreign Medico- Chirurgical Re- 
view. 



TIDY, MODERN CHEMISTRY. 

A Hand-Book of Modern Chemistry. Organic and Inorganic. By C. Mey- 
mott Tidy, m.d. 8vo. Price $5.00 

"We doubt if any other chemical work containing so large an amount of information could be procured."— 
Dublin Medical Journal. 



38 PRESLE Y BLAKISTON 'S 



TILT, THE CHANGE OF LIFE IN WOMEN. 

The Change of Life in Health and Disease. A Practical Treatise on the 
Diseases incidental to Women at the Decline of Life. By Edward John Tilt, 
m.d. Fourth London Edition. 8vo. Price, Cloth, $1.25 ; Paper cover, .75 

" We believe Dr. Tilt brings much more than ordinary merit to bear on his subject, and handles it accord- 
ingly. Few books are issued that are more indispensable to the general practitioner." — Phila. Med. Times. 

" Dr. Tilt's clear and concise style makes the book at once a pleasant one to read and an easy guide to follow, 
and we are quite sure it is the most valuable one we have on the subject." — Boston Med. &* Surg. Journal. 

" The best work on the subject."— London Lancet. 

TOMES, DENTAL ANATOMY. Second Edition. 

A Manual of Dental Anatomy, Human and Comparative. By C. S. Tomes, 
d.d.s. With 179 Illustrations. Second Edition. i2mo. Price $4.25 

TOMES, DENTAL SURGERY. 

A System of Dental Surgery. By John Tomes, f.r.s. The Second Edition, 
Revised and Enlarged. By C. S. Tomes, d.d.s. With 263 Illustrations. i2mo. 

Price I5.00 

" We rejoice that such books as these (Dr. Tomes' Works) are demanded by the profession, and that the men 
to write them are furnished by the profession." — Dental Cosmos. 

TAFT, OPERATIVE DENTISTRY. Fourth Edition. 

A Practical Treatise on Operative Dentistry. By Jonathan Taft, d.d.s. 
Fourth Revised and Enlarged Edition. Over 100 Illustrations. 8vo. 



"All the important operations, in all their modifica- 
tions, are clearly discussed by the author, and the 
work is highly practical throughout." — Dental Regis- 
ter. 



Price, Cloth, $4.25 ; Leather, 5.00 

" It is a thorough and complete treatise on the Art 
of Practical Dentistry." — London Medical Times and 
Gazette. 



TANNER, INDEX OF DISEASES. Second Edition. 

An Index of Diseases and their Treatment. By Thos. Hawkes Tanner, m.d., 

f.r.c.p. Sixth Edition. Revised and Enlarged. By W. H. Broadbent, m.d. 

With Additions. Appendix of Formulae, etc. 8vo. Price $3.00 

By this useful hand-book the character of any disease may be determined in a 

moment, and the general outline of treatment pursued by the best authorities made 

apparent. 

" This work, like others from the gifted author, has I " Finally, a chapter on the climates, countries, mine- 
already won for itself a reputation." . . . " It is ral springs, etc, best adapted to the various classes of 
in truth what its title indicates." — New York Medical invalids, makes this work the most complete practi- 
Record. tioner's manual that we have yet seen. — Chicago Me di- 

\ cal Times. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

THE DISEASES OF INFANCY. 

A Practical Treatise on the Diseases of Infancy and Childhood. Third Edi- 
tion. Carefully Revised and much Enlarged. By Alfred Meadows, m.d. 
8vo. % Price $3.00 

Recommended as a Text-book at Jefferson Medical College and other schools of 
Medicine. 

"One of the most careful, ornate, and accessible " We consider the views of the author on the subject 

manuals on the subject." — London Lancet. of therapeutics as rational in the highest degree." — 

Boston Medical a?td Surgical Journal. 

MEMORANDA OF POISONS. 

A Memoranda of Poisons and their Antidotes and Tests. Fifth American, 
from the Last London Edition. Revised and Enlarged. In Press. 

This most complete Toxicological Manual should be within reach of all physi- 
cians and pharmacists, and as an addition to every family library, would be the 
means of saving life and allaying pain when the delay of sending for a physician 
would prove fatal. 



PUBLICA TIONS. 39 



TIBBETS, MEDICAL ELECTRICITY. 

A Hand-book of Medical Electricity. Giving full directions for its Applica- 
tion, etc. By Herbert Tibbets, m.d. 64 Illustrations. 8vo. 

TOLAND, PRACTICAL SURGERY. 

Lectures on Practical Surgery. By H. H. Toland, m.d., Professor of Surgery, 
University of California. Second Edition. With Additions and Numerous Illus- 
trations. 8vo. Price, Cloth, $4.50; Leather, $5.00 

TRANSACTIONS OF THE COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS. 

The Transactions of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia. New Series. 
Vols. 1, 11, in, iv and v. 8vo. Price, per volume, $2.50 

TYSON, BRIGHT'S DISEASE AND DIABETES. 

A Treatise on Diabetes and Bright's Disease. With Especial Reference to 
Pathology and Therapeutics. By James Tyson, m.d., Professor of Pathology 
and Morbid Anatomy in the University of Pennsylvania. With Colored Plates 
and many Wood Engravings. 8vo. Price $3.50 



" This volume is the outcome of some fifteen years' 
special study and observation, and will be found to be 
a very well prepared monograph His direc- 
tions are clear and minute. — Med. and Surg. Reporter. 



" The symptoms are clearly denned, and the treat- 
ment is exceedingly well described, so that every one 
reading the book must be profited." — Cincinnati Lan- 
cet and Clinic. 



BY SAME AUTHOR. 

GUIDE TO THE EXAMINATION OF URINE. 

A Practical Guide to the Examination of Urine. For the use of Physicians and 

Students. With Colored Plates and Numerous Illustrations Engraved on Wood. 

Fourth Edition. i2mo. Price $1.50 

Advantage has been taken, in bringing out a new edition of this work, not only to 

correct the previous one, but to make such additions of new Facts and Processes as 

would add to its value without materially increasing its size. 

"Dr. Tyson commences with a short account of the theory of renal secretion, the physical and chemical charac- 
ters of the urine, and the reagents and apparatus used in its analysis. Excellent rules are then given for detecting 
the presence of albumen, sugar, coloring-matters, bile, urea, uric acid, chlorides, phosphates and sulphates ; and 
minute instructions for approximative and quantitative determination of most of those ingredients by volumetric 
analysis are supplied." — Philadelphia Medical Times. 

" We have experienced both pleasure and profit ftom the perusal of this book. It is agreeably written, contains 
much practical information, and is, we believe, a reliable and satisfactory guide to the clinical examination ot 
urine. We can recommend Dr. Tyson's book as one that amply supplies the clinical needs of the physician." — 
Dziblin Journal of Medical Science. 

THE CELL DOCTRINE. Second Edition. 

The Cell Doctrine. Its History and Present State. With a Copious Biblio- 
graphy of the subject. Illustrated by a Colored Plate and Wood Cuts. Second 
Edition. 8vo. Price $2.00 

TURNBULL, ARTIFICIAL ANAESTHESIA. 

The Advantages and Accidents of Artificial Anaesthesia ; Its Employment in 
the Treatment of Disease ; Modes of Administration ; Considering their Rela- 
tive Risks ; Tests of Purity ; Treatment of Asphyxia ; Spasms of the Glottis ; 
Syncope, etc. By Laurence Turnbull. m.d., ph. g., Aural Surgeon to Jeffer- 
son College Hospital, etc. Second Edition. Revised and Enlarged. With 27 
Illustrations of Various Forms of Inhalers, etc. i2mo. Price $1.50 

" Anaesthesia is a subject of great interest and importance to physicians and dentists, and everything that will 
aid them in better understanding the subject is sought with great avidity. This work we regard as the best aid in 
the study of the subject, and it presents the subject up to the present hour." — Dental Register. 

TEALE, DANGERS TO HEALTH. Third Edition. 

A Pictorial Guide to Domestic Sanitary Defects. By T. Pridjin Teale, m.d., 
f.r.c.s. With Colored Plates. 8vo. Price $3.50 



4o PRESLE Y BLAKISTON 'S 

VACHER, CHEMISTRY. 

A Primer of Chemistry, Including Analysis. By Arthur Vacher. i8mo. 

Price .50 

VIRCHOW, POST-MORTEM EXAMINATIONS. Second Edi- 
tion. 

Post mortem Examinations. A Description and Explanation of the Method 
of Performing them in the Dead House of the Berlin Charite Hospital, with 
especial reference to Medico-legal Practice. By Prof. Virchow. Translated 
by Dr. T. P. Smith. Second Edition. i2mo. With 4 Plates. Price $1.25 

"A most useful manual from the pen of a master. " Its low price and portability make it accessible and 

. . . . For thorough and systematic method in convenient to every surgical registrar and practitioner." 

the performance of post-mortem examinations, there is — British Medical Journal. 

no guide like it." — Lancet. 

WAGSTAFFE, HUMAN OSTEOLOGY. 

The Student's Guide to Human Osteology. By William Warwick Wag- 
staffe, f.r.c.s. With 23 Lithographic Plates of the Bones, Showing Muscle 
Attachments, and 60 Wood Engravings. i2mo. Price $3.00 

WALTON, DISEASES OF THE EYE. Third Edition. 

A Practical Treatise on Diseases of the Eye. By Haynes Walton, m.d. 
Third Edition. Rewritten and Enlarged. With five plain and three colored 
full-page Plates; and many other Illustrations, Test Types, etc. Nearly 1200 
pages. 8vo. Price $9.00 

WARNER, CASE TAKING. 

The Student's Guide to Medical Case Taking. By Francis Warner, m.d., 
m.r.c.p., etc. i2mo. Cloth. Price $1.75 

General Diseases. — Class i. Class 2. Arthritic Diseases. Diseases of the Nervous System. Of the Vas- 
cular System. Of the Respiratory System. Of the Digestive System. Of the Liver. Of the Urinary System. 
Instruction for Case Taking. 

WATERS, DISEASES OF THE CHEST. Second Edition. 

The Diseases of the Chest. Their Clinical History, Pathology and Treat- 
ment. By A. T. H. Waters, m.d., Fellow Royal College of Physicians. With 
Numerous Illustrative Cases and Lithographic Plates. 8vo. Price $4.00 

" The present edition contains new chapters on haemoptysis, hay fever, aortic regurgitation, mitral constriction, 
thoracic aneurism, and the use of chloral in certain diseases of the chest ; other chapters have received additions 
of cases and remarks on treatment. Some characteristic sphygmographic tracings have also been added." — Bos- 
ton Medical and Surgical Journal. 

WOOD, BRAINWORK. 

Brainwork and Overwork. By Prof. H. C. Wood, Jr. 321110. 

Price, Paper cover, .30; Cloth .50 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

DENTAL PATHOLOGY. 

With Special Reference to the Anatomy and Physiology of the Teeth. With 
Notes by Thos. B. Hitchcock, m.d., of Harvard University. 105 Illustra- 
trations. 8vo. Price, Cloth, $3.50; Leather, $4.50 

WHITTAKER, ON THE URINE. 

Student's Primer on the Urine. By J. Travis Whittaker, m.d., Physician to 
Anderson's College Dispensary. With Illustrations Etched on Copper. i6mo. 

Price $1.50 

Physiological Study of Urine — Sensation in Passing. Quantity. Color. Odor. Specific Gravity. History 
and Behavior. Sediment or Deposits. Chemical Study of Urine — Reaction. Albumen. Chlorides. Ammonia. 
Urea. Phosphates. Blood. Sugar. Bile. Microscopical Study of Urine and Urinary Deposits — Amorphous 
Urates. Uric Acid. Triple Phosphates. Phosphate of Lime. Feathery Phosphates. Oxalate of Lime. Urate 
of Soda and of Ammonia. Cystine. Tyrosine. Leucine. Cholesterine. Epithelium. Fat Globules, etc. 

"The plates are possessed of great versimilitude, as well as in other respects admirable." — Med. Times. 

" Neat and concise, and the illustrations are very good testimony of the claim which he makes of the suitability 
of the etching needle for delineation of microscopical appearances." — Boston Med. and Surg. Journal. 



PUB LIC A TIONS. 41 



WEST, THE DISEASES OF WOMEN. Fourth Edition.. 

Lectures on the Diseases of Women. By Charles West, m.d. Fourth 
London Edition. Revised and in part re-written by the Author. With Numer- 
ous Additions by J. Mathews Duncan, m.d., Obstetric Physician to St. Bar- 
tholomew's Hospital 8vo. Price $5.00 
Drs. West and Duncan are, perhaps, the most celebrated London physicians 
giving attention to the Diseases of Women, and together have made a most com- 
plete work, either for the physician or student. 

WILKES, PATHOLOGICAL ANATOMY. 

Lectures on Pathological Anatomy. By Samuel Wilkes, f.r.s. Second 
Edition. Revised and Enlarged by Walter Moxon, m.d., f.r.s., Physician to 
and Lecturer at Guy's Hospital, London. 8vo. Price $6.00 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 

Lectures on Diseases of the Nervous System, Delivered at Guy's Hospital, 
London. New Edition, with Additions, Numerous Illustrative Cases, etc. 8vo. 

[Preparing. 

"A book of great value, embodying as It does the results of the experience and observation of one of the most 
accomplished of the London Hospital Physicians." — American yournal of Medical Science. 

WRIGHT, ON HEADACHES. Ninth Thousand. 

Headaches, their Causes, Nature and Treatment. By Henry G. Wright, 
m.d i2mo. Price .50 

WILSON, ON DRAINAGE. 

Drainage for Health ; or, Easy Lessons in Sanitary Science, with Numerous 
Illustrations. By Joseph Wilson, m.d., Medical Director United States Navy. 
One Vol. Octavo. Price $1.00 

"Dr. Wilson is favorably known as one of the lead- "Easily understood, and briefly and concisely pre- 

ing American writers on hygiene and public health. sented." — Providence Journal. 

The book deserves popularity." — Medical and Surgi- " Will be found of value." — Boston Transcript, 

cal Reporter. "Worthy of praise as a popular statement of the 

" Well written and well illustrated. Attention to its , subject." — Boston Journal of Chemistry. 

teachings may save much disease and perhaps many " Will be sure to be a harbinger of good in every fam- 

lives." — Cincinnati Gazette. ily whose good fortune it may be to possess a copy." — 

" Interesting as well as useful." — Philadelphia Led- \ Builder and Wood Worker. 
ger. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

NAVAL HYGIENE. 

Naval Hygiene, or, Human Health and Means for Preventing Disease. With 
Illustrative Incidents derived from Naval Experience. Illustrated. Second 
Edition. 8vo. Price $3.00 

WILSON, HOW TO LIVE. 

Health and Healthy Homes. A Guide to Personal and Domestic Hygiene. 
By George Wilson, m.d., Medical Officer of Health. Edited by Jos. G. 
Richardson, m.d., Professor of Hygiene at the University of Pennsylvania. 
314 pages. i2mo. Price $1.00 

Chapter i. — Introductory, page 17. 11. The Human Body, 33. in. Causes of Disease, 66. iv. Food and 
Diet, 119. v. Cleanliness and Clothing, 169. VI. Exercise, Recreation and Training, 187. vu. Home and Its 
Surroundings, Drainage, Warming, etc., 221. viii. Infectious Diseases and their Prevention, 269. 

"A. most useful, and in every way, acceptable book." — New York Herald. 

" Marked throughout by a sound, scientific spirit, and an absence of all hasty generalizations, sweeping asser- 
tions, and abuse cf statistics in support of the writer'^ particular views. . . . We cannot speak too highly of 
a work which we have read with entire satisfaction." — Medical Timet and Gazette. 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

A HAND-BOOK OF HYGIENE 

And Sanitary Science. With Illustrations. Fourth Edition. Revised and 
Enlarged. 8vo. Price $2.75 



42 PRESLEY BLAKISTON'S 

WILSON, HUMAN ANATOMY. Tenth Edition. 

The Anatomist's Vade-Mecum. General and Special. By Prof. Erasmus Wil- 
son. Edited by George Buchanan, Professor of Clinical Surgery in the Uni- 
versity of Glasgow ; and Henry E. Clark, Lecturer on Anatomy at the Royal 
Infirmary School of Medicine, Glasgow. Tenth Edition. With 450 Engravings 
(including 26 Colored Plates). Crown 8vo. Price $6.90 

Recommended as a Text-book at Rush Medical College, Chicago ; Bellevue Hos- 
pital, New York; St. Louis Medical College; Yale and Dartmouth Schools, and 
many other Colleges. 

"The present edition of the 'Anatomist's Vade-mecum,' has been prepared under 
the same editorial control as the Ninth Edition. 

" Numerous additional wood cuts have been introduced, and full-page engravings 
of the bones, which have been drawn and engraved with great care, to secure ac- 
curacy, and to make them not mere anatomical diagrams, but artistic pictures." 

BY SAME AUTHOR. 

HEALTHY SKIN. Eighth Edition. 

A Practical Treatise on the Skin and Hair ; their Preservation and Manage- 
ment. Eighth Edition. i2mo. Paper. Price $1.00 

WILSON, SEA VOYAGES FOR HEALTH. 

The Ocean as a Health Resort. A Hand-book of Practical Information as to 
Sea Voyages, for the Use of Tourists and Invalids. By Wm. S. Wilson, l.r.c.p. 
Lond., m.r.c.s.e. With a Chart showing the Ocean Routes, and Illustrating the 
Physical Geography of the Sea. Crown 8vo. Price $2.50 

Chapter 1. Curative Effects of the Ocean Climate. 2. The Various Health Voyages. 3. Time of Starting — 
Choosing a Ship. 4. Preliminary Arrangements. 5. Life at Sea. 6. Climate and Weather. 7. Management of 
the Health at Sea. 8. Occupations and Amusements at Sea. 9. Objects of Interest at Sea. 10. End of the 
Voyage — Future Plans. 11. The Homeward Voyage. 12. Australia: its Climate, Cities, and Health Resorts. 
13. South Africa and its Climate. 14. The Meteorology of the Ocean. 

Appendix A. — Outfit Required for a Voyage to Australia. B. Names and Addresses of some of the Principal 
Shipping Firms. 

"All the information is supplied by, or based upon, the actual experience of the author; and the book may be 
confidently recommended to all who have to undertake, without previous experience, a sea voyage of any length. 
Medical men may consult it with advantage, and commend it to those patients whom they may advise to try the 
effect of a long voyage at sea." — Medical Times and Gazette. 

" We have read every page of this book, and have derived both instruction and amusement." — Lancet. 

WELLS, OVARIAN AND UTERINE TUMORS. Just Out. 

The Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of Ovarian and Uterine Tumors. By 
T. Spencer Wells, m.d. Illustrated. 8vo. Price, Cloth, $7.00 

So long a time having elapsed since Dr. Wells has collected the results of his 
large experience in book form, the present volume will be eagerly looked for by all 
interested in this very important subject. 

WOLFE, ON DISEASES OF THE EYE. 

A Practical Treatise on Diseases and Injuries of the Eye. Being a Course of 
Systematic and Clinical Lectures to Students and Medical Practitioners. By M. 
Wolfe, f.r.c.p.e., Senior Surgeon to the Glasgow Ophthalmic Institution, etc. 
With 10 Colored Plates, and numerous other Illustrations. Octavo. Price $7.00 

WALKER, INTERMARRIAGE. 

Intermarriage, or, The Mode in which, and the Causes why, Beauty, Health 
and Intellect result from certain Unions ; and Deformity, Disease and Insanity 
from others. Illustrated. i2mo. Price $1.00 



PUBLICATIONS. 43 



WOODMAN and TIDY, MEDICAL JURISPRUDENCE. 

Forensic Medicine and Toxicology. By W. Bathurst Woodman, m.d., 
Physician to the London Hospital, and Charles Meymott Tidy, f.c.s., Pro- 
fessor of Chemistry and Medical Jurisprudence at the London Hospital. With 
Chrcmo-Lithographic Plates, representing the Appearance of the Stomach in 
Poisoning by Arsenic, Corrosive Sublimate, Nitric Acid, Oxalic Acid ; the Spectra 
of Blood and the Microscopic Appearance of Human and other Hairs ; and 
116 other Illustrations. Large octavo. Sold only by Subscription. 

Price, Cloth, $7.50; Medical Sheep, $8.50; Law Leather, $8.50 

" We have no hesitation in pronouncing the work to be one of unusual 0erit. More readable than Taylor, 
more systematic in its arrangement, and more practical in its instruction, it will prove to the medical jurist, not 
less than to the general practitioner, a storehouse of useful knowledge, conveyed in an unusually graphic style." — 
Dublin Jottrnal of Medical Science. 

"The authors of this truly great work have largely supplied the want felt, sooner or later, by almost every 
doctor." — Cincinnati Lancet and Observer. 

"All the best known works on Medical Jurisprudence have been laid under contribution for the production of 
the present volume. It contains almost everything that can be found in other works on the subject; but it is no 
mere compilation. Dr. Woodman and Dr. Tidy have both thought out the subject for themselves, and, with rare 
industry and acumen, have brought together a mass of facts which is little short of astounding. The book is 
worthy to take its place alongside of any work on the same subject, and must prove of great use to all who prac- 
tice in criminal courts, and to all medical practitioners. We have no hesitation in recommending it to our read- 
ers." — London La7tcet. 

" Altogether the work will rank with the best of its class as a medico-legal hand-book, and cannot fail to gain 
a wide popularity." — New York Medical Record. 

"It cannot be otherwise than a valuable contribution to the boundless subject of medical jurisprudence." — 
Albany Law Journal. 

"The scope of this book is very wide, and its execution worthy of all commendation." — Philadelphia Legal 
Intelligencer. 

WYTHE, ON THE MICROSCOPE. 

The Microscopist. A Manual of Microscopy and Compendium of the Micro- 
scopic Sciences, Micro-Mineralogy, Micro-Chemistry, Biology, Histology, and 
Practical Medicine. By Joseph H. Wythe, a.m., m.d. Fourth Edition. 252 
Illustrations. 8vo. Price, Cloth, $5.00 ; Leather, $6.00 

An Index and Glossary have been combined in this edition, so as to be a source 
of valuable information. Notices of recent additions to the microscope, together 
with the genera of microscopic plants, have been given in an Appendix. 

From what we knew of the author of this work, as i " This is one of the most valuable text-books on mi- 



a skilled practical Microscopist, a successful teacher of 
the science, and a practitioner of medicine and surgery 
of long and varied experience, we had a right to expect 
a good book from his hands. Our expectations are fully 
realized in the volume before us. The style is clear 
and distinct, and one reads the book with the utmost 



croscopy ever offered to students or practitioners of 
medicine. This edition has been greatly enhanced in 
value by the addition of chapters on the use of the 
microscope in pathology, diagnosis, and etiology, and 
numerous new illustrations, some of which are from 
Rindfleisch. 



facility of comprehension. It is the more valuable to j "The author very carefully brings out every neces- 
the physician and medical student on account of its J sary fact and principle relating to the use of the micro- 



closer application of the microscope to medical subjects 
than we find elsewhere. The numerous plates, many 
of which are beautifully colored, are not to be excelled. 
We feel proud of it as an American production." — 
Pacific Medical and Surgical Journal. 



scope, and now that this instrument has become an es- 
sential part of every practitioner's armamentarium, a 
practical guide and reference book is also a necessity, 
and we are fully warranted in reiterating the statement 
that this is one of the most valuable text-books ever 
offered to students and practitioners of medicine." — 
The Cincinnati Lancet and Clinic. 



BY SAME AUTHOR. 

DOSE AND SYMPTOM BOOK. Eleventh Edition. 

The Physician's Pocket Dose and Symptom Book. Containing the Doses and 
Uses of all the Principal Articles of the Materia Medica, and Original Prepara- 
tions. Eleventh Revised Edition. 

Price, Cloth, $1.00; Leather, with Tucks and Pocket, $1.25 

" The chapter on Dietetic Preparations will be found useful to all practicing physicians, most of whom have but 
little acquaintance with the mode of preparing the various articles of diet for the sick." — Boston Medical and 
Surgical Journal. 

" Many a hard-worked practitioner will find it a useful little work to have on his study table."— Canada Medical 
and Surgical Journal. 



44 



PRESLEY BLAKISTON'S PUBLICATIONS. 



WHEELER, MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Medical Chemistry, Including the Outlines of Organic and Physiological 
Chemistry. By C. Gilbert Wheeler, m.d. Second Edition. i2mo. 

Price $3.00 
WOAKES, ON DEAFNESS AND GIDDINESS. 

On Deafness, Giddiness and Noises in the Head ; or, The Naso-Pharyngeai 
Aspect of Ear Disease. By Edward Woakes, m.d , Senior Aural Surgeon to 
the Hospital for Diseases of the Throat and Chest. Third Edition. Revised and 
Enlarged, with Additional Illustrations. i2mo. 



" The early demand for a fresh edition of Dr. 
Woakes' volume is a sufficient criticism of its merits. 
. . . No brief summary of his views could do full 
justice to the cogency and subtlety of his reasons. 
We prefer to commend the whole work to the thought- 
ful perusal of all intelligent medical practitioners who 
desire to rise above the level of mere routine empiri- 
cism.' ' — Lancet. 



"This book, although small, is evidently the result 
of much careful thought and observation. . . . We 
cordially recommend the work as original and suggest- 
ive, and as being likely to prove very useful in explain- 
ing both the causation of symptoms otherwise puzzling, 
and their appropriate treatment." — Practitioner. 



ILLUSTRATED BOOKS. 

MEDICINAL PLANTS. 

Being Descriptions, with original Figures, of the Principal' Plants employed in 
Medicine, and an account of their Properties and Uses. By Robert Bentley, 
f.l.s., Professor of Botany in the King's College, and to the Pharmaceutical 
Society, and Henry Trimens, m.b., f.l.s., late Lecturer on Botany at St. 
Mary's Hospital Medical School. In 42 Parts, each, $2.00, or in 4 vols., large 
8vo, with 306 Colored Plates, bound in half morocco, gilt edged. $90.00 

AN ATLAS OF TOPOGRAPHICAL ANATOMY. 

After Plane Sections of Frozen Bodies. By William Braune, Professor of Anatomy 
in the University of Leipzig. Translated by Edward Bellamy, f.r.c.s., Sur- 
geon to and Lecturer on Anatomy at Charing Cross Hospital. With 34 Photo- 
lithographic Plates and 46 Wood cuts. Large imp. 8vo. $ 8.00 



ATLAS OF SKIN DISEASES. 

Consisting of a Series of Illustrations, with Descriptive Text and Notes upon 
Treatment. By Tilbury Fox, m.d., f.r.c.p., late Physician to the Department 
for Skin Diseases in University College Hospital. With 72 Colored Plates. 
In 18 Parts, each, $1.00 or, 1 Vol., Royal 4to, Cloth. $20.00 

AN ATLAS OF HUMAN ANATOMY. 

Illustrating most of the ordinary Dissections, and many not usually practiced by 
the Student. By Rickman J. Godlee, M.S., f.r.c.s., Assistant Surgeon to 
University College Hospital, and Senior Demonstrator of Anatomy in Universi- 
ty College. With 48 imp. 4to Colored Plates (112 Figures), and a volume of Ex- 
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By Christopher Heath, f.r.c.s., Home Professor of Clinical Surgery in Uni- 
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Fasciculi XI to XIV. Ready. Each, #2.50 



JUST PUBLISHED. 

A PRACTICAL TREATISE 



ON THE 



Diseases of the Uterus, 

OVARIES, AND FALLOPIAN TUBES. 

By A. COURTY, M.D., 

Professor of Clinical Surgery, Montpellier. 

TRANSLATED FROM THE THIRD EDITION, BY HIS PUPIL AND ASSISTANT, 

AGNES M'LAREN, M.D., M.K.Q.C.P.I., 

WITH A PREFACE BY 

MATTHEWS DUNCAN, M.D., LL.D., F.R.S.E., 

Obstetric Physician to Saint Bartholomew's Hospital, Loisdon. 

WJTH FOUR HUNDRED AND THIRTY-ONE ILLUSTRATIONS 

ONE VOLUME, OCTAVO. 

Price, handsome cloth, $6.00; full sheep, raised bands, $7.00. 



EXTRACT FROM PREFACE. 

Among books devoted to diseases of women, none has been, or is, more important 
than that of Professor Courty, of Montpellier. It is the carefully elaborated and 
repeatedly revised work of a man at once imbued with the science and immersed in 
the practice of gynaecology; of one who has long lived in a centre of general science 
and learning, amidst an abounding population, and who enjoys the great advantage of 
combining in his sphere of practical activity both hospital and private patients — two 
classes which differ in their circumstances, and in their aspects for observation, favor- 
able and unfavorable to the student. 

This translation of a work on women has been, with striking appropriateness, 
executed by a woman doctor. I have had the privilege of her friendship since her 
childhood, and know her excellent qualities. She has already, by original work, shown 
her competence, in an important respect, for this now completed task of translation. 
But she is, in addition, specially qualified, having studied in the University of Mont- 
pellier, under Dr. Courty, among others, and having, subsequently to her graduation, 
been for a considerable time his assistant in practice. Moreover, since she settled in 
Edinburgh, Dr. M*Laren has, in her own practice, maintained her familiarity with the 
diseases treated of in this book. 

Courty's work has, since its first publication, been recognized everywhere. In 
France its position is attested by the sale of two editions, numbering, I am told, ten 
thousand copies, and by the appearance of another, the third edition. It is from this 
third edition that this translation has been made. As it now appears, it is a treatise on 
the diseases of the Uterus, Fallopian Tubes and Ovaries, with an introductory chapter on 
the anatomy, physiology and teratology of the organs of generation. I recommend to 
the careful study of my professional brethren a book which has already been crowned 
by the Institute of France. J. Matthews Duncan. 

OUTLINE OF CONTENTS. 

Introduction.— On the Anatomy, Physiology, and Teratology of the Organs of Generation. Part i.— General 
Survey of Uterine Diseases. Diagnosis of Uterine Diseases in General ; Treatment of Uterine Diseases in 
General; General Characteristics of Uterine Diseases. Part, ii — Uterine Diseases in Detail. Functional 
Disorders ; Changes of Position ; Morbid States without Neoplasm ; Organic Alterations ; Diseases of the 
Uterine Appendages ; Pelvic Hemorrhages and Peri-uterine Hematocele ; Cyst of the Ovary and Genito-pelvic 
Tumor; Sterility, etc., etc Index. 

*45* This work is now ready. It may be obtained from the booksellers, or will be 
sent by mail, postage prepaid by the publishers, upon receipt of the 

PRICE, CLOTH, $6.00; LEATHER, $7.00. 

P. BLAKISTON, SON & CO., 1012 Walnut Street, Philadelphia. 



4S* This has been entirely rewritten and remodeled, and brought up to the present day. 

BIDDLE'S 

Materia Medica. 

NINTH REVISED EDITION. 

(Contains all the Changes in the New Pharmacopoeia.) 

Recommended as a Text-book at Yale College, University of Michigan^ 

College of Physicians and Surgeons, Baltimore, Baltimore Medical 

College, Louisville Medical College, and a number of other 

Colleges throughout the United States. 

BIDDLE'S MATERIA MEDICA. For the Use of Students 
and Physicians. By the late Prof. John B. Biddle, m.d., 
Professor of Materia Medica in Jefferson Medical College, 
Philadelphia. The Ninth Edition, thoroughly revised, and 
in many parts rewritten, by his son, Clement Biddle, m.d., 
Assistant Surgeon, U. S. Navy, assisted by Henry Morris, 
m.d. Containing all the additions and changes made in the 
last revision of the United States Pharmacopoeia. Octavo. 

Ready. 
Bound in Cloth. Price $4.00; Leather, $4.75. 



RECOMMENDATIONS. 

" It will be found a useful handbook by students, especially, who may be 
under the instruction of its able and accomplished author." — American Med- 
ical Journal. 

" In short, it is just the work for a student, embracing as it does what will 
be discussed in a course of lectures on materia medica." — Cincinnati Medical 
News. 

" In truth, the work is well adapted to the wants of students." — The Clinic. 

" Nothing has escaped the writer's scan. All the new remedies against 
disease are duly and judiciously noted. Students will certainly appreciate its 
shapely form, grace of manner, and general multum in parvo style." — Ameri- 
can Practitioner. 

" Biddle's ' Materia Medica ' is well known to the profession, being a stand- 
ard text-book in several leading colleges." — New York Medical Journal. 

" It contains, in a condensed form, all that is valuable in materia medica, 
and furnishes the medical student with a complete manual on this subject." — 
Canada Lancet. 

" The necessity for a new edition of this work in so short a time is the best 
proof of the value in which it is held by the profession."— Medical and Surg- 
ical Reporter. 

" The standard ' Materia Medica ' with a large number of medical students 
is Biddle's." — Buffalo Medical and Surgical Journal. 

"The larger works usually recommended as text-books in our medical 
schools are too voluminous for convenient use. This work will be found to 
contain in a condensed form all that is most valuable, and will supply students 
with a reliable guide." — Chicago Medical Journal. 

*^* This Ninth Edition contains all the additions and changes in the U. S. 
Pharmacopoeia, Sixth Revision. 



P. BLAKISTON, SON & CO., Publishers and Booksellers. 
1013 WALNUT STREET, PHILADELPHIA. 









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